Solid Breast Masses Diagnosed as Fibroadenoma at Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy: Acceptable Rates of Growth at Long-term Follow-up

Abstract

Solid breast masses diagnosed as fibroadenomas at FNAB may be safely followed up if volume growth rate is less than 16% per month in those younger than 50 years and less than 13% per month in those 50 years or older. Acceptable mean change in dimension for a 6-month interval is 20% for all ages.

Characterization of Solid Breast Masses

“…If the benign-appearing mass enlarges at follow-up, we tentatively suggest that the mass has converted to a BI-RADS category 4 lesion, for which biopsy would be appropriate. [19][20][21] In our study, other than in patients with complicated cysts that decreased in size during FNAC, none of the lesions placed in class 3 showed morphologic or dimensional changes during follow-up.…”

“…20 Excessive biopsies have adverse effects on society, increasing the costs of screening projects and health care. 10,20,21 Costantini et al Breast sonography is not used to its full capacity if it is restricted to the differentiation between cystic and solid lesions and evaluation of dense breasts. To decrease the number of biopsies for benign lesions, sonography should be exploited for accurate interpretation of a lesion's characteristics of suspicion.…”

Malignant Phyllodes Tumors of the Breast: A Study in Clinical Practice

“…1 The most helpful symptom described by the patient was a rapidly developing mass that quickly enlarged on monthly physical examination by the patient. 1,9 The diagnostic difficulty is to determine between the common fibroadenoma and a patient who may have a phyllodes tumor. Typically fibroadenomas are 20 to 30 mm in size.…”

“…2 Recently investigators have reported a plethora of genetic changes in malignant phyllodes tumor, the most consistent of which was found to be 1q gain by competitive genomic hybridization. 9 Most malignant phyllodes tumors will express estrogen and progesterone receptor presence. 9 The progesterone receptor is most common.…”

“…9 Most malignant phyllodes tumors will express estrogen and progesterone receptor presence. 9 The progesterone receptor is most common. 9 Interestingly, it has been reported that histologically, malignant phyllodes tumors tend to show more chromosomal changes than the benign and borderline counterparts.…”