Aspiration biopsy cytology of occult breast lesions by use of the "scouting needle". A prospective study of 261 cases.
The increased use of mammography for the detection of impalpable breast lesions has resulted in a need for new diagnostic techniques. In a prospective study of 261 occult breast lesions, aspiration biopsy was done with a standard fine needle and syringe. This "scouting needle" technique permits the collection of diagnostic cytologic material in the clinician's office without specialized radiologic equipment. Thirty of 53 malignant lesions (57%) were detected cytologically. A benign cytologic diagnosis, which was made in 220 patients, did not preclude additional investigation. Aspiration biopsy using the "scouting needle" is a rapid, low-cost, easily performed, initial procedure which complements "watchful waiting." When diagnostic of carcinoma, it results in immediate surgical intervention and may obviate two-stage surgical treatment.
Daum
G S
GS
Department of Pathology, Lankenau Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19151.
Kline
T S
TS
Artymyshyn
R L
RL
Neal
H S
HS
D001707:Biopsy, Needle / Q000379:methods*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D002114:Calcinosis / Q000473:pathology; D002277:Carcinoma / Q000473:pathology; D002278:Carcinoma in Situ / Q000473:pathology; D005188:False Negative Reactions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012189:Retrospective Studies