CYTOLOGIC FINDINGS OF ASPIRATION OF TUMORS OF BREAST

  • 1 January 1978
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 146  (3) , 407-411
Abstract
Fine needle aspiration biopsy for cytologic diagnosis was an effective adjunct to the clinical evaluation of masses of the breast by physical examination and mammography. In addition to adequately decompressing cystic masses, the procedure was beneficial in obtaining a pathologic interpretation of any mass that is to be observed. Preoperative knowledge of the malignant nature of a mass of the breast allows the physician to investigate more selectively the possibility of metastatic disease and to consider more intelligently treatment options. The psychologic agony of the unknown for the patient and her family is avoided. Although histologic confirmation is always recommended before proceeding with mastectomy, a positive cytologic diagnosis can suffice when clinically advanced carcinoma is present or when there are medical contraindications to surgical treatment. Because of the false-negative rate of aspiration of cytologic diagnosis, all clinically malignant or suspicious masses should have a biopsy in the face of benign cytology. This point cannot be over emphasized and is particularly pertinent to those patients in whom high risk factors of carcinoma of the breast are present. Inconclusive aspirates should be repeated or a biopsy of the mass should be done.