The Usefulness of Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration in Breast Lesions

Abstract

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) has been used extensively for the diagnosis of breast lesions over the past decade and has now been largely replaced by core needle biopsy. However, ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration cytology (US-guided FNAC) is still widely used because of its advantages of simple procedure, low cost, fewer side effects, and excellent tolerance by patients. Indeed, US-FNAC of indeterminate/suspicious lymph nodes in breast cancer patients can provide a more definitive diagnosis than ultrasonography alone. This review article summarizes the method of use and utility of US-guided FNAC in breast lesions.

Keywords

• breast
• fine needle aspiration
• cytology
• lymph nodes
• ultrasonography