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Revision as of 02:08, 17 February 2025
An overview of breast masses and their evaluation through needle biopsy
Breast Mass
A breast mass is a localized swelling or lump in the breast tissue. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from benign fibroadenomas to malignant breast cancer. The evaluation of a breast mass is crucial for determining the appropriate management and treatment.
Causes
Breast masses can be caused by:
Symptoms
Common symptoms associated with a breast mass include:
- A palpable lump in the breast
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes over the breast, such as dimpling
- Nipple discharge
Evaluation
The evaluation of a breast mass typically involves a combination of clinical examination, imaging, and biopsy.
Clinical Examination
A thorough clinical breast examination is performed to assess the characteristics of the mass, such as its size, location, and consistency.
Imaging
Mammography and ultrasound are commonly used imaging techniques to evaluate breast masses. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be used in certain cases.
Needle Biopsy
A needle biopsy is a procedure used to obtain a sample of tissue from a breast mass for pathological examination. It is a minimally invasive procedure that can provide a definitive diagnosis.
Types of Needle Biopsy
Procedure
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. A needle is inserted into the breast mass, and a sample of tissue is extracted. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Advantages
Needle biopsy is less invasive than surgical biopsy and has a shorter recovery time. It is also highly accurate in diagnosing breast masses.
Management
The management of a breast mass depends on the underlying cause. Benign masses may require monitoring or surgical removal, while malignant masses may require a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
