Korean J Cytopathol.  2007 Sep;18(2):112-118.

Diagnostic Pitfalls in Breast Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology: False Positive and False Negative

• Park K

Abstract

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) has become a highly preferred, minimally invasive diagnostic tool of choice in the diagnosis of a palpable breast mass owing to its sensitivity, specificity, cost-effectiveness, and expediency. Although breast needle biopsies have been widely employed recently due to the increased detection rate of nonpalpable early lesions, the importance of the use of FNAC cannot be underestimated. It comprises part of the diagnostic triad for the breast along with a physical examination and mammography, which together contribute to an increasing diagnostic accuracy. The differential diagnosis of a benign and malignant lesion is of the utmost importance in the diagnosis of breast lesions, and therefore the understanding of the possible diagnostic pitfalls is of great importance.

Keyword

Breast; Fine needle aspiration cytology

MeSH Terms

Biopsy, Fine-Needle*
Biopsy, Needle
Breast*
Diagnosis
Diagnosis, Differential
Mammography
Physical Examination
Sensitivity and Specificity