Imaging-pathologic correlation of diseases in the axilla

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• The axilla is a complex region containing lymph nodes, accessory breast tissue, nerves, and vessels.
• Diseases in the axilla can present with nonspecific imaging findings, posing diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review imaging and histopathologic findings of diverse axillary diseases.
• To provide management guidelines for radiologists based on imaging and clinical correlation.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging modalities (ultrasound, MRI, CT) and histopathologic features.
• Correlation of radiologic findings with specific disease entities and their anatomic origins.

Main Results:

• Characteristic radiologic manifestations for nodal, accessory breast, adipocytic, fibrous, nerve, vascular, stromal, and dermal lesions were identified.
• Postsurgical changes in the axilla were also characterized.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the radiologic appearance of axillary diseases based on their origin is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
• Integrating imaging findings with clinical information helps establish differential diagnoses and guides intervention necessity.