Observations Regarding the Detection of Abnormal Findings Following a Cancer Screening Whole‐Body MRI in Asymptomatic Subjects: The Psychological Consequences and the Role of Personality Traits Over Time

Abstract

BackgroundThe use of whole‐body MRI (WB‐MRI) in oncology has uncovered frequent unexpected abnormal findings (AFs). However, the impact of AFs on the patients' mental well‐being is still poorly examined.PurposeTo investigate the long‐term psychological consequences of AF detection following WB‐MRI for cancer screening in asymptomatic individuals.Study TypeProspective, longitudinal.Population121 consecutive subjects of the general population (mean age = 52.61 ± 11.39 years; 63% males) scheduled for cancer screening by WB‐MRI.Field Strength/Sequence1.5‐T and 3‐T; protocol complied with Oncologically Relevant Findings Reporting and Data System (ONCO‐RADS) guidelines.AssessmentParticipants completed the first psychological investigation (T0) immediately after the WB‐MRI. Subsequently, it was repeated after 1‐year (T1), and 4‐years (T2, subgroup of 61 participants) without an MRI exam, assessing personality traits, tumor risk perception, quality of life, depressive, and anxious symptoms. Radiologists directly reported WB‐MRI findings to the participants, explaining the clinical implications and the location of the AFs. The number and severity of AFs were assessed.Statistical TestsPearson's correlations and analysis of variance with repeated measures assessed the psychological health variables' relationship and their changes over time. A P‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsAll participants presented AFs, with 101 individuals categorized as ONCO‐RADS 2 and 19 as ONCO‐RADS 3. The AFs were most prevalent in bones (31.5%). The overall participants showed only a slight increase in depressive symptoms at T1 [F(1,112) = 7.54]. The severity and the number of AFs were not significantly related to psychological changes [ranging from P = 0.503 to P = 0.997]. Depressive and anxious symptoms over time were significantly affected by the traits of conscientiousness [T1: F(1,112) = 7.87; T2: F(1.708,90.544) = 3.40] and openness [T1: F(1,112) = 4.41].Data ConclusionDisclosing AFs by WB‐MRI exams for cancer screening may not lead to long‐term psychosocial consequences. Certain personality traits may, however, influence the psychological distress experienced by individuals with AFs after WB‐MRI exams.Level of Evidence2.Technical EfficacyStage 5.