Our Summary

This study looked at how needle biopsies (a common method to diagnose breast cancer) might cause inflammation in breast tumors. The researchers analyzed 73 cases of early-stage breast cancer where patients had undergone a needle biopsy before having surgery. They found that a variety of changes, including inflammation, were often observed near the area where the biopsy was taken. Certain types of immune cells, such as macrophages and eosinophils, were found in higher amounts near the biopsy site. These changes weren’t linked to how much time had passed since the biopsy, but the presence of plasma cells (another type of immune cell) was related to leftover material from the biopsy markers. The findings suggest that these immune cells stay near the biopsy site, regardless of how much time has passed since the biopsy.

FAQs

  1. What is the main focus of this study about needle biopsies and breast cancer?
  2. What types of immune cells were found in higher amounts near the biopsy site?
  3. Were the changes observed near the biopsy area linked to how much time had passed since the biopsy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about breast biopsy is to expect some inflammation near the biopsy site. It is common for immune cells to gather in the area where the biopsy was taken, and this inflammation is a natural response to the procedure. It is important to follow any post-biopsy care instructions provided by your healthcare provider to help manage any discomfort or swelling. If you experience any unusual symptoms or concerns after a breast biopsy, be sure to contact your doctor for further guidance.

Suitable For

Patients who are recommended breast biopsy typically include those with:

  1. Suspicious or abnormal findings on a mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI
  2. Palpable lumps or masses in the breast
  3. Changes in the skin or nipple, such as dimpling or retraction
  4. Nipple discharge, especially if it is bloody
  5. Personal or family history of breast cancer
  6. Previous history of atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)
  7. Genetic mutations that increase the risk of breast cancer, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
  8. High breast density on mammogram
  9. History of radiation therapy to the chest
  10. Previous breast cancer diagnosis and treatment

It is important for patients to discuss their individual risk factors and symptoms with their healthcare provider to determine if a breast biopsy is necessary.

Timeline

Before breast biopsy:

  1. Patient undergoes routine breast imaging (mammogram, ultrasound, MRI) which shows a suspicious lump or abnormality.
  2. Doctor recommends a breast biopsy to further evaluate the abnormality and determine if it is cancerous.
  3. Patient may undergo additional imaging or tests to locate the precise area for the biopsy.
  4. Patient is informed about the procedure, risks, and benefits of the biopsy.

During breast biopsy:

  1. Patient receives local anesthesia to numb the area.
  2. Doctor uses a needle to extract tissue samples from the suspicious area in the breast.
  3. Patient may feel pressure or discomfort during the procedure, but it is generally well-tolerated.
  4. Tissue samples are sent to a lab for analysis to determine if cancer cells are present.

After breast biopsy:

  1. Patient may experience mild pain, bruising, or swelling at the biopsy site.
  2. Results of the biopsy are typically available within a few days to a week.
  3. If cancer is detected, patient will discuss treatment options with their healthcare team.
  4. Patient may undergo further tests or procedures to determine the extent of the cancer and develop a treatment plan.
  5. Patient may experience emotional distress or anxiety while awaiting biopsy results and during the treatment process.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of the breast biopsy and what are you looking for?
  2. What type of biopsy procedure will be performed and how long will it take?
  3. Will local anesthesia be used and what can I expect in terms of discomfort during and after the procedure?
  4. Are there any risks or complications associated with the biopsy procedure?
  5. How long will it take to get the results of the biopsy?
  6. What will the biopsy results tell us about my condition and what are the next steps in treatment?
  7. Will the biopsy procedure leave any scarring or affect the appearance of my breast?
  8. Are there any restrictions on activities or care needed after the biopsy?
  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments or tests after the biopsy?
  10. Is there anything else I should know or consider before having a breast biopsy?

Reference

Authors: McCarty C, Yi M, Sous S, Leslie M, Tariq E, Dondapati P, Kameyama H, Nuguri S, Chakraborty N, Wilkerson M, Davis R, Mesiya S, Rui H, Chervoneva I, Zhang R, Tanaka T. Journal: Pathobiology. 2023;90(2):114-122. doi: 10.1159/000524668. Epub 2022 Jun 1. PMID: 35649384