Dear Women's Imaging Insider,
A good specimen can make all the difference in stereotactic breast biopsy. When it comes to microcalcifications, mammographic-pathologic correlation is vital for optimal diagnosis. Previous studies have shown that poor sampling can result in a lack of microscopic visualization of these microcalcifications (The Breast Journal, May-June 2004, Vol. 10:3, pp. 200-233).
The latest research on this topic reiterates that, unless a core sample demonstrating a calcification on specimen x-ray is obtained, biopsy results may fail to show a malignant lesion. Investigators from California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco came to this conclusion after looking at 116 vacuum-assisted biopsy procedures in 113 women. To read more about what the specimen radiography of these biopsies revealed, click here.
In the same Insider Exclusive article, you'll also find details on an interesting case report by a group from the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. During a stereotactic biopsy procedure, the stainless steel sheath for the breast marker clip was deployed inadvertently. The authors set out to determine how safe it would be to leave the sheath inside the patient, especially if she should require an MRI in the future.
In other breast imaging news, researchers in Boston found that women are turning up for their first mammograms, but they aren't necessarily going back for seconds. Meanwhile, another study indicates that women who have undergone chemotherapy and radiation treatment for breast cancer benefit from group therapy sessions.
Finally, will your women's health facility be participating in National Mammography Day on October 18? If so, please let AuntMinnie.com know how the day goes for you by dropping me an e-mail.
