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Flow cytometric analysis of breast needle aspirates
J O Palmer1, R W McDivitt, K R Stone
1Division of Anatomic Pathology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110.
Cancer
|December 1, 1988
Summary
Flow cytometry of breast fine needle aspirates can identify malignancy. Aneuploid DNA profiles in G0G1 peaks are indicative of cancer, aiding diagnosis when subjective cytology is inconclusive.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Accurate diagnosis of breast lesions is crucial for effective treatment.
- Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is a common diagnostic tool, but cytologic interpretation can be subjective.
- Flow cytometry offers objective DNA analysis for cell populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if needle aspiration yields sufficient cells for reliable flow cytometric DNA analysis of breast nodules.
- To assess if aneuploid G0G1 peaks are exclusive to malignant breast lesions, serving as a diagnostic marker.
Main Methods:
- Breast specimens (n=344) were collected via needle aspiration.
- Cells were stained with propidium iodide for flow cytometric DNA analysis.
- Diagnostic criteria for malignancy included an aneuploid G0G1 peak (≥20% of cells, DNA index ≥1.2).
Main Results:
- Sufficient cells for analysis were obtained from 59% of malignant (153/204) and 41% of benign (111/140) specimens.
- Using defined criteria, 48% (73/153) of carcinomas were identified by flow cytometry.
- No benign lesions met the criteria for malignancy; one atypical hyperplasia showed a minor aneuploid peak (<5% cells).
Conclusions:
- Needle aspiration can provide adequate cells for flow cytometric DNA profiling of breast lesions.
- A distinct aneuploid G0G1 peak is a reliable indicator of malignancy in breast aspirates.
- Flow cytometry complements cytologic evaluation, offering objective data for improved breast cancer diagnosis.