Histological findings in surgical specimens after core biopsy of the breast

Pathological changes induced by needling procedures found in breast surgical specimens are rare but can induce misinterpretation or compromise the definitive histological analysis. These abnormal findings depend on the interval between the core biopsy and excision. Early findings are local haemorrhage, disrupted tissue and epithelial cell displacement, whereas, fibrosis, fat necrosis and inflammatory reaction are observed later in time. The radiologists must be aware of these histological pitfalls and must consider the benefits of their core biopsies (indications, surgeon's question, number of samples).