title: Breast masses. In-office evaluation with diagnostic triad.
abstract: Using the diagnostic triad of clinical breast examination, fine-needle aspiration, and mammography, primary care physicians can make an in-office definitive diagnosis in 90% of women presenting with a dominant breast mass. The remaining 10% should undergo open surgical biopsy. This diagnostic-triad approach is accurate, efficient, and cost-effective, and it does not require additional lengthy training, expensive equipment, or complex technology. In the case of breast cancer, the woman and her family can be immediately counseled and quickly prepared for consulting appointments and appropriate treatment options.
authors.affiliation: University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles.
authors.forename: W H
authors.initials: WH
authors.lastname: Hindle
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001707:Biopsy, Needle / Q000379:methods; D001941:Breast Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008327:Mammography; D008875:Middle Aged; D010173:Palpation; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000379:methods