Cytomorphological Pattern of Neoplastic and Non-Neoplastic Breast Lesions - An Institutional Experience of a Rural Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

BACKGROUND Among Indian population, benign as well as malignant breast lesions are quite common. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is frequently carried out as it is a simple, safe, reliable and time saving procedure. A short retrospective study was designed to evaluate the role of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) & frequency of palpable breast lesions/lumps. Early diagnosis of breast lesions through FNAC prompts early treatment without the need for biopsy. The purpose of this study was to analyse the cytomorphological patterns of non-neoplastic and neoplastic lesions diagnosed by FNAC over a time period at a tertiary care hospital. METHODS This retrospective observational study was conducted as a hospital opd based procedure from June 2019 to December 2019. A total of 210 patients having breast lesions/lumps were included, among which 5 patients were excluded because of unsatisfactory FNAC aspirate. Smears were processed and their cytological evaluation was done by experienced pathologists. RESULTS Among all breast lesions, non-neoplastic was most commonly seen in 2nd decade of life and neoplastic in 5th decade of life. Fibroadenoma was the most common benign breast lesion followed by fibrocystic disease while among neoplastic lesions invasive ductal carcinoma was most common. Involvement of left breast was most common. CONCLUSIONS Benign breast diseases are quite common in younger population. Fibroadenoma is the most common benign condition among females of reporductive age group. FNAC is routinely done to separate malignant lesions from benign ones which makes it an important tool in guiding further management as it is a quick, simple, feasible, and cost-effective method.