Cytohistological correlation and effectiveness of FNAC as Single Primary Diagnostic Modality in Palpable Breast Lesions

Abstract

The aim of this  study is to evaluate cytohistological  features of  palpable breast lesions and to  assess  the diagnostic accuracy of FNAC of the breast lesions when compared with corresponding histopathological findings. This will justify the usefulness of FNAC as an accurate  first step technique in the diagnosis of palpable breast mass. Breast mass is the most common presentation of breast disease and main reason for women seeking medical opinion. The mass can be inflammatory, benign or malignant.  A prompt evaluation and diagnosis is essential to rule out malignancy and alleviate anxiety. Triple test, a combination of clinical, radiological and cyto-pathological assessment is considered to be the gold standard in making a definitive diagnosis of breast lumps. But all centers may not have imaging facilities. Tissue biopsy is an invasive procedure requiring preparation and expertise.FNAC offers valuable first step diagnostic option because of ease of procedure, minimal discomfort, no preparation required and shorter turnaround time for the report. It has high patient acceptance. Shorter turnaround time with same day report ensures further spot decisions in patient management. It also reduces health cost by obviating other investigations .All these factors favour FNAC as a primary diagnostic modality in resource limited medical centers.