| Abstract: | 110 women who had undergone biopsy for benign lesions of the breast were studied for subsequent development of breast carcinoma over the following 16-20-period. 10 women in the study developed carcinoma in the same or opposite breast within 16-20 years, a rate of incidence 480% greater than among the general population of women of the same age. Average interval time from biopsy to appearance of malignant tumors was 9 years. The original biopsies were studied and categorized with a view to isolating pathologic factors which might indicate high risk. No factor could be associated with subsequent carcinoma development. The incidence of carcinoma appeared related to years of risk only. It is recommended as a result of this study that all women who undergo biopsies for benign breast lesions should have life-long followup since they seem to be at high risk. |
