Early breast cancer detection using mammogram images: A review of image processing techniques

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide among women so that one in eight women is affected by this disease during their lifetime. Mammography is the most effective imaging modality for early detection of breast cancer in early stages. Because of poor contrast and low visibility in the mammographic images, early detection of breast cancer is a significant step to efficient treatment of the disease. Different computer-aided detection algorithms have been developed to help radiologists provide an accurate diagnosis. This paper reviews the most common image processing approaches developed for detection of masses and calcifications. The main focus of this review is on image segmentation methods and the variables used for early breast cancer detection. Texture analysis is the crucial step in any image segmentation techniques which are based on a local spatial variation of intensity or color. Therefore, various methods of texture analysis for mass and micro-calcification detection in mammography are discussed in details.