Nonpalpable breast abnormalities: a realistic view of the accuracy of mammography in detecting malignancies.

The true-positive biopsy rate for nonpalpable breast abnormalities demonstrated by mammography is in the range of 20 to 30%. This is comparable to the true-positive biopsy rate for palpable breast lesions. Both radiologists and surgeons must be familiar with the limitations of mammography, since unrealistic expectations of this examination can lead to its underutilization.