Objective:

To discuss the imaging characteristics of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and to compare the results with characteristics of non-TNBC (NTNBC).

Methods:

Forty-two cases with TNBC and 504 cases with NTNBC confirmed by pathology and immunohistochemistry were retrospectively analyzed. Mammography and MRI were performed. The calcification

shape

edge

T2 signal

enhancement pattern and time-intensity curve (TIC) between the two groups were compared by c

hi-square test.

Results:

On mammography

TNBC usually presented with a round (10/25

40%) mass with less calcifications (17/28

61%)

and clear margins (12/25

48%). On MRI

the TNBC usually presented with a round (22/27

82%) mass with clear margins (11/27

41%)

high signal intensity on T2-weighted image (5/27

18.5%)

rim enhancement (8/27

29.6%) and type Ⅲ TIC (20/32

63%). There were statistically significant differences in calcification

edge on mammography between the two groups (

P

0.05). There were statistically significant differences in shape

edge

enhancement pattern

apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and TIC on MRI between the two groups (

P

0.05).

Conclusion:

On MRI

the TNBC usually presented with clear margins

rim enhancement

type Ⅲ TIC and a higher ADC. MRI combined with mammography findings has a certain value.