[Infraclinical breast carcinoma]

Early detection of breast cancer is gaining importance because it leads to reduction of morbidity and mortality rates of this disease. Detection of infraclinical tumors is best accomplished by mammography because of its high sensitivity. Ultrasonography and MR mammography play a complementary role. Ductal carcinoma in situ as well as small invasive tumors can be clinically occult malignant tumors. Preoperative marking should be performed in suspected breast lesions, preferentially by means of a hookwire or carbon. Surgical removal of the lesion is to be verified by intraoperative specimen radiography.