Mammotome biopsy in diagnosing and treatment of intraductal papilloma of the breast

Intraductal papilloma is a benign breast tumor which needs histopathological verification because of the risk of cancer coincidence. The aim of the study was to assess the value of the mammography-guided and ultrasound-guided vacuum-assisted core biopsy in the diagnosis and treatment of intraductal papillomas of breast and to answer the question if mammotome biopsy allows to avoid surgery in these patients. Material and methods. In the period 2000-2011, a total of 2246 vacuum-assisted core biopsies were performed, of which 1495 were ultrasound-guided and 751 were mammography-guided (stereotaxic). In 76/2246 patients (3.4%), aged 19-88 years (mean age was 51,5) histopathological examination confirmed intraductal papilloma. Results. Atypical lesions were accompanying intraductal papilloma in 16/76 cases (21%). Open surgical biopsy performed in these group revealed invasive cancer in 3 women. In all 60 cases (79%) with benign papilloma in biopsy specimens, further clinical observation did not show recurrence or malignant transformation of lesions. Conclusions. Vacuum-assisted core biopsy is a minimally invasive and efficient method used for diagnosing intraductal papilloma of the breast. If histopathological examination confirms a benign character of the lesion, surgery may be avoided but regular follow-up is recommended. However, in all cases histopathological diagnosis of papilloma with atypical hyperplasia, should always be indication for surgical excision.