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Stereotactic cytology in a regional breast-screening programme
M J Kerin1, N N Williams, K J Cronin
1Department of Surgery, Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
The British Journal of Surgery
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Stereotactic cytology accurately diagnoses non-palpable breast abnormalities detected through screening. This minimally invasive technique aids in early cancer detection, improving patient outcomes in breast screening programs.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Non-palpable mammographic abnormalities require accurate diagnostic methods.
- Early detection of breast cancer is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic value of stereotactically guided fine-needle aspiration cytology for non-palpable mammographic abnormalities.
- To assess the accuracy of immediate reporting of stereotactic cytology in a breast screening program.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study of 166 patients with screen-detected non-palpable abnormalities.
- Stereotactically guided fine-needle aspiration using a 22-G Franzén needle with immediate cytology reporting.
- Cytology specimens graded from 1 (inadequate) to 5 (malignant), with subsequent surgical staging.
Main Results:
- Stereotactic cytology correctly diagnosed 56 out of 71 malignancies.
- Twelve malignancies were reported as grade 1 (inadequate cytology).
- 50 out of 52 cases with grade 2 cytology were benign.
Conclusions:
- Stereotactic cytology is a valuable diagnostic tool for non-palpable breast abnormalities within screening programs.
- The procedure demonstrates good accuracy in differentiating benign from malignant lesions prior to biopsy.
- Immediate reporting enhances the utility of stereotactic cytology in clinical decision-making.