Discrepant estrogen receptor protein levels according to surgical technique

A marked discrepancy in the positivity rate of estrogen receptor protein assessment in breast biopsy specimens obtained by conventional scalpel dissection (53 per cent) and by electrodissection (27 per cent) raised the question of whether the latter technique was appropriate for obtaining specimens for estrogen receptor protein assay. Two cases served as their own controls to demonstrate the inherent error in obtaining tissue by electrodissection. It is now urged that the electrocautery technique be avoided when tissue is obtained for estrogen receptor protein assay.