title: Fine-needle aspiration and core biopsy in the diagnosis of breast lesions: A comparison and review of the literature.
abstract: In recent times, the diagnosis of breast lesions has mostly become dependent on core needle biopsies (CNBs) with a gradual reduction in the rate of performing fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). Both the procedures have their pros and cons and outsmart each other taking into account different parameters. Both the methods are found to be fraught with loopholes, taking into account different performance indices, diagnostic accuracy and concordance, patient benefit, and cost-effectiveness. Unlike the popular belief of an absolute superiority of CNB over FNAC, the literature review does not reveal a very distinct demarcation in many aspects. We recommend judicious use of these diagnostic modalities in resource-limited settings and screening programs taking into account parameters such as palpability and availability of an experienced cytopathologist.
authors.affiliation: Address: Department of Pathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
authors.forename: Suvradeep
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mitra
authors.affiliation: Department of Cytopathology and Gynecological Pathology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
authors.forename: Pranab
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Dey
keywords: Breast; core needle biopsy; fine-needle aspiration cytology