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Changes in breast compressibility with age: implications for stereotactic biopsy
1Department of Radiology, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Ill. 60153, USA. ckalbhen@lunis.luc.edu
Summary
Breast compressibility decreases with age, particularly after 70. Many elderly women may not be suitable candidates for stereotactic core breast biopsy due to insufficient breast thickness.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Breast Imaging
Background:
- Stereotactic percutaneous core breast biopsy is a minimally invasive alternative to open biopsy.
- Insufficient breast compression thickness poses challenges, especially in elderly women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between breast compressibility and patient age.
- To identify age-related changes in breast thickness relevant to biopsy procedures.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 312 women aged 28-90 undergoing mammography.
- Measurement of breast compression thickness from craniocaudal and mediolateral oblique views.
Main Results:
- Mean breast thickness peaked in women aged 50-59, decreasing in younger and older age groups.
- Statistically significant reduction in breast thickness observed in women aged 70 and older.
- Over 50% of women over 80 had breasts compressing to less than 20 mm, a critical threshold for core biopsy needle passage.
Conclusions:
- Age-related decrease in breast compressibility impacts suitability for stereotactic core breast biopsy.
- Elderly patients, particularly those over 70, frequently exhibit insufficient breast thickness for this procedure.