Objective
The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of an upright-type 11-gauge stereotactic vacuum-assisted biopsy device (Mammotome®) for the diagnosis of breast microcalcifications
Methods
Between May 2001 and October 2005, 154 biopsies in 152 patients with microcalcifications were performed using the upright-type 11-gauge stereotactic vacuum-assisted biopsy device. Patients in whom this biopsy was diagnosed as carcinoma or a borderline lesion, had a subsequent surgical excision of the lesion. Histopathological and radiological features of the two specimens were then compared with each other.
Results
Microcalcification was identified on specimen mammograms and microscopic slides in 97.4% of cases. Of 154 Mammotome biopsies 98 (63.6%) were benign, 51 (33.1%) were malignant, 3 (1.9%) showed atypical hyperplasia, and 2 (1.3%) were indeterminate, respectively. Of the 48 cases that received surgical excision, 6 of 36 ductal carcinomas in situ (16.7%) upstaged to invasive ductal carcinoma and 1 of 2 atypical ductal hyperplasias was upstaged to ductal carcinoma in situ. The positive predictive value of the 11-gauge Mammotome for the diagnosis of invasion in breast cancer was 100%. Linear calcification and pleomorphic calcification linear/segmental distribution was reliable indications of malignancy. The mean follow-up time of the benign lesions was 22 months, and without evidence of lesion growth. Complications included vasovagal reactions (6.3%), bleeding (0.6%) and hematoma (2.6%).
Conclusion
The upright stereotactic 11-gauge Mammotome procedure is an effective and reliable method for the diagnosis of breast microcalcifications. It has minimal side effects. For lesions diagnosed as ADH or DCIS with the 11-gauge Mammotome, subsequent surgical excision should be performed.