Thromboelastographic distinction of malignant from benign breast masses: a preliminary report

Thromboelastography is a newly applied tool for the detection of carcinoma. By comparing the thromboelastograph (TEG) of fresh whole blood (native) to that of blood to which celite has been added (celite activated), enhanced clotting is manifested which allows identification of individuals harboring carcinoma. Twenty women, obtained in a random sampling, entering the North Carolina Baptist Hospital for biopsy of breast masses were studied with routine clotting tests and TEGs preoperatively. TEG prediction of the biopsy result was correct in 16 of 20 patients (P less than 0.05). Thromboelastography may be a useful adjunct in screening for carcinoma in the evaluating persons with masses of unknown histology.