Pseudoaneurysm in the axillary tail of the breast following stereotactic biopsy: A case report and literature review

Background

Core needle biopsy of the breast is a widely used technique to obtain a specimen for histopathological examination. Stereotactic biopsy occasionally result incomplications such as infection or hematoma. The development of a pseudoaneurysm after breast biopsy; however, is a rare complication.

Case presentation

A 56-year-old postmenopausal woman using a vitamin K antagonist presented with a suspicious lesion in the lateral upper quadrant of the right breast, initially classified as BI-RADS 3. After 24 months, an increase in calcification led to reclassification as BI-RADS 4, prompting stereotactic biopsy without periprocedural complications. One month later, the patient presented with continuous swelling accompanied by pain. Ultrasound and Doppler revealed a concentric collection with a to-and-fro waveform, indicating a pseudoaneurysm. Treatment with thrombin injection successfully induced thrombosis. Follow-up at six weeks demonstrated complete regression of the mass without signs of residual blood flow.

Conclusions

Thrombin injection appears to be a safe and effective treatment for the occurrence of pseudoaneurysm following stereotactic breast biopsy.