Occult breast lesions and aspiration biopsy: the Lankenau experience

With the increased use of screening mammography, many occult lesions are being identified. Despite the availability of ultrasonography and stereotaxis, their use in conjunction with fine-needle aspiration biopsy for further examination of these lesions, at the time when cost containment is a serious consideration, must be evaluated. Consequently, the role of cytopathologist becomes important in identifying lesions requiring timely follow-up and surgical treatment. To assist the clinicians in evaluating the best approach to occult lesions, we reviewed the results from ultrasonographic guided aspiration biopsies (100) and stereotactic guided aspiration biopsies (61) at our institution. Our findings and review of the literature suggest that the former should only be used sparingly. By contrast, stereotactic biopsies interpreted as a part of an interdisciplinary approach can provide critical information for decision-making.