Objective: To evaluate and discuss the indications for breast magnetic resonance imaging in an oncology reference center. Materials and Methods: Retrospective study approved by the Committee for Ethics in Research of the institution and developed through a review of patients’ records and clinical reports. All the breast magnetic resonance studies performed in the period from July 2008 to July 2009 (n = 529) were included. Results: Mean patients’ age was 49 years, ranging from 17 to 86 years. Family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer was present in 162 patients (30.6%). Most common indications for breast magnetic resonance imaging included inconclusive mammographic/sonographic findings (48.8%), evaluation of tumor recurrence/surgical scar after breast surgery (15.1%), disease staging/surgical planning (11.7%) and screening in high-risk patients (8.5%). Conclusion: In spite of inconclusive findings at conventional imaging studies being the most common indication for breast magnetic resonance imaging, there is no evidence in the literature supporting such a conduct. Because of its high sensitivity and high rate of false positive results, magnetic resonance imaging should be appropriately indicated in order to avoid unnecessary procedures. Once such method is appropriately indicated, it may contribute in the decision making process, constituting an essential tool in the assessment of breast lesions.

Keywords: Magnetic resonance imaging; Breast neoplasms; Early detection of cancer.