Our Summary

This study aimed to understand the results of MRI-guided biopsies of the breast, a procedure where a small sample of breast tissue is taken using a needle under the guidance of MRI for testing. Over a 4-year period, 101 such biopsies were performed on 79 women. Most of these women (91%) had a history of breast cancer.

The results showed that the majority of the abnormalities detected by MRI were not cancerous (82%). These non-cancerous abnormalities were mostly due to changes in the breast tissue such as fibrocystic changes (49%), sclerosis (13%), and fibroadenoma (9%).

Of the 18% that were cancerous, the most common types were invasive lobular carcinoma (44%), ductal carcinoma in situ (39%), and invasive ductal carcinoma (17%). Importantly, most of these cancerous findings (89%) were in patients who already had breast cancer.

These findings led to changes in the treatment approach for almost half of these patients. This could mean either additional surgeries like removing lymph nodes or more extensive surgeries like removing more breast tissue.

In conclusion, this study found that most of the abnormalities detected in MRI-guided biopsies of the breast were not cancerous. However, when they were cancerous, they were usually in patients who already had breast cancer and often led to changes in treatment.

FAQs

  1. What percentage of abnormalities detected by MRI-guided biopsies of the breast were found to be cancerous?
  2. What were the most common types of cancer found in MRI-guided breast biopsies?
  3. How did the findings from the MRI-guided biopsies impact the treatment approach for patients?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about breast biopsy is to not panic if an abnormality is detected, as the majority of findings are not cancerous. It is important to follow through with the recommended follow-up and treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome. It is also important for patients to discuss any concerns or questions they may have with their healthcare provider.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended breast biopsy include those with:

  1. Suspicious findings on mammograms or other imaging tests
  2. Breast lumps or masses that are felt during a physical exam
  3. Abnormal changes in the breast tissue, such as thickening or skin changes
  4. Personal or family history of breast cancer
  5. Previous breast biopsies with abnormal results
  6. Monitoring of known breast abnormalities or lesions
  7. High-risk factors for breast cancer, such as genetic mutations (BRCA1/BRCA2)
  8. Follow-up after breast cancer treatment to monitor for recurrence or new abnormalities.

It is important for patients to discuss with their healthcare provider if they have any concerns or risk factors that may warrant a breast biopsy for further evaluation.

Timeline

Before the breast biopsy:

  • Patient may have noticed a lump or abnormality in the breast during a self-exam or routine screening
  • Patient may have undergone imaging tests such as mammogram or ultrasound to further investigate the abnormality
  • Doctor may have recommended a breast biopsy based on the results of the imaging tests
  • Patient may have received information about the biopsy procedure and potential risks and complications

After the breast biopsy:

  • Patient may experience some discomfort or pain at the biopsy site for a few days
  • Patient may have to wait for the biopsy results to come back from the laboratory, which can take a few days to a week
  • Doctor will discuss the results of the biopsy with the patient and recommend further treatment or follow-up based on the findings
  • If the biopsy results show cancerous abnormalities, patient may undergo additional tests or procedures to determine the extent of the cancer and develop a treatment plan

Overall, the experience of a breast biopsy can be a stressful and emotional time for the patient, but early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial for successful treatment and recovery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about breast biopsy based on this study could include:

  1. What are the chances that the abnormalities detected in my breast biopsy are cancerous?
  2. What are the most common types of cancer found in breast biopsies, and what are the treatment options for each?
  3. How will the results of my breast biopsy impact my current treatment plan, if I have a history of breast cancer?
  4. Are there any additional tests or procedures that may be recommended based on the results of my breast biopsy?
  5. What are the potential risks and complications associated with undergoing a breast biopsy?
  6. How often should I undergo follow-up screenings or biopsies, considering the findings of this study?
  7. Can you explain the different types of non-cancerous abnormalities that may be detected in a breast biopsy, and how they may impact my overall breast health?
  8. How will you communicate the results of my breast biopsy to me, and what support resources are available for further guidance or information?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or preventive measures I can take to reduce my risk of developing breast abnormalities in the future, based on the findings of this study?
  10. Will my insurance cover the cost of the breast biopsy procedure and any necessary follow-up treatments or interventions?

Reference

Authors: Lilly AJ, Johnson M, Kuzmiak CM, Ollila DW, O’Connor SM, Hertel JD, Calhoun BC. Journal: Ann Diagn Pathol. 2020 Oct;48:151563. doi: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2020.151563. Epub 2020 Jul 3. PMID: 32738557