Large-core needle biopsy of nonpalpable breast lesions

Jack E. Meyer, Darrell N. Smith, Susan C. Lester, Carolyn Kaelin, Pamela J. DiPiro, Christine M. Denison, Roger L. Christian, Susan C. Harvey, Donna Lee G. Selland, Sara M. Durfee

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

221 Scopus citations

Abstract

Context: An increasing number of nonpalpable abnormalities requiring breast biopsy are being identified due to the widespread use of screening mammography. Large-core needle biopsy (LCNB) has become an alternative to surgical excision. Objective: To determine whether LCNB is a safe and accurate technique to evaluate nonpalpable abnormalities found on breast imaging studies. Design and Setting: Case series at an institutional referral center from August 1, 1991, to December 31, 1997. Patients: A total of 1643 women with 1 or more suspicious breast abnormalities received LCNBs (n = 1836 lesions). Intervention: The LCNB of the breast uses a 14- or 11-gauge needle with stereotactic localization or ultrasound guidance. Main Outcome Measure: Utility and potential limitations of LCNB compared with the criterion standard, surgical excision after wire localization. Results: Of the 1836 breast lesions sampled, 444 (24%) were found to be malignant. A total of 412 (22%) were found to be malignant on the initial LCNB and 202 repeat biopsies yielded 32 additional malignancies. Complications were infrequent: 1 patient experienced a superficial infection and 1 developed a pneumothorax after LCNB. Conclusion: Image-guided LCNB is a reliable diagnostic alternative to surgical excision of suspicious nonpalpable breast abnormalities.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1638-1641
Number of pages4
JournalJAMA
Volume281
Issue number17
DOIs
StatePublished - May 5 1999
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Large-core needle biopsy of nonpalpable breast lesions'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this