Related Experiment Videos
Fat necrosis in the breast: sonographic features
M S Soo1, P J Kornguth, B S Hertzberg
1Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
Radiology
|January 10, 1998
Summary
Ultrasonography (US) reveals diverse breast mass features in fat necrosis. Monitoring US appearance and evolution can help differentiate fat necrosis from other lesions, potentially avoiding unnecessary biopsies.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Breast Imaging
Background:
- Fat necrosis is a common benign breast condition.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial to avoid unnecessary interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the ultrasonographic (US) features of breast fat necrosis.
- To assess the evolution of US findings in fat necrosis over time.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of US features in 31 breast masses from 23 patients.
- Diagnosis confirmed by histology (20 cases) or mammography (11 cases).
- Minimum 15-month follow-up for mammographic cases.
Main Results:
- US demonstrated discrete masses in most cases, categorized by predominant features (solid, complex, anechoic).
- Architectural distortion was observed in 21 masses.
- Follow-up sonograms showed evolution in some masses; no masses enlarged, and some decreased in size.
Conclusions:
- A wide spectrum of US findings is associated with fat necrosis.
- Understanding US appearance and evolution aids in managing suspected fat necrosis.
- Imaging follow-up may be a viable alternative to biopsy in select cases.