Fibrotic lesions of the breast: radiological findings and core-neddle biopsy results

Objectives

To evaluate the incidence of breast lesions with a histopathological diagnosis of focal fibrosis based on imaging guided core biopsy, to review the radiologic findings and to assess the diagnostic reliability of 14 G core needle biopsy.

Materials and methods

723 patients, who had undergone 14 G core biopsy and/or surgical excisions, were retrospectively analyzed. Overall, 43 lesions were diagnosed as focal fibrosis. Physical examination, mammography, ultrasonography, and follow-up findings were all reviewed.

Results

Radiological evaluation revealed that 35 (81%) lesions were solid masses. Of 35 mass lesions, 24 (69%) were well circumscribed, the remaining 11 (31%) lesions were ill defined on mammograms or sonograms. None of the lesions had pathological microcalcifications. Three lesions were surgically excised because of radio-pathological discordance after core needle biopsy.

Conclusions

Focal fibrosis of the breast is a benign condition and reflects the ductal and lobular atrophy secondary to stromal proliferation. The radiological findings of this entity may vary and sometimes mimic those of malignant lesions. The incidence of focal fibrosis among our study population is 6% and a well-defined mass lesion is the most frequent finding. Core needle biopsy is a safe and reliable diagnostic procedure in the management of these cases.