Fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis and management of ectopic breast tissue

Ectopic breast tissue presents as solitary or multiple masses in young women along the milk line. The most common site is in the axilla. This may present a diagnostic problem as lymphadenopathy, either primary or secondary, or other soft tissue tumors that may present in a similar way. Six patients with eight axillary masses suspicious for ectopic breast tissue were evaluated with fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology. Five aspirates revealed epithelial cells consistent with breast tissue; one showed adipose tissue; and two were non-diagnostic. This information helped prevent surgery in one pregnant and one lactating woman. Therefore, FNA examination is helpful in the diagnosis of management of ectopic breast tissue.