Comparative value of aspiration cytology in the diagnostic evaluation of breast masses

For 38 consecutive patients presenting with breast masses we compared accuracy of diagnosis, before biopsy, of the techniques of clinical examination, bilateral xeromammography, and aspiration cytology with a 10-cc syringe and a 22-gauge needle. Of the 38 patients, nine had carcinoma and 29 had benign breast disease. The overall diagnostic accuracy showed a perfect correlation between aspiration cytology and subsequent biopsy for carcinoma in this group. Clinical impression made the correct diagnosis in 89.5% of the cases and bilateral xeromammography produced the correct diagnosis in 84.9%. Both clinical impression and mammography were incorrect in diagnosing 33.3% of the malignancies. The technique of cytologic aspiration is a simple, accurate, and effective adjunct to the early diagnosis and treatment of carcinoma of the breast, and this should become a part of the initial evaluation of the patient who presents with a breast mass.