Diagnosis of Ductal Carcinoma in Situ

Diagnostic Biopsy in Ductal Carcinoma in Situ

When an abnormal area has been detected by mammography and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is suspected, the diagnosis must be confirmed by removing a sample from the suspicious area of the breast and examining the specimen under a microscope. This procedure is known as a diagnostic biopsy. Because most cases of DCIS are non-palpable (the tumor cannot be felt or localized by palpation) and are only detected mammographically, image-guided open (excisional) biopsy is necessary to both confirm the diagnosis and determine the optimal treatment. A variety of image-guided open biopsy procedures are available including:

• Stereotactic core needle biopsy
• Guided wire open biopsy
• Ultrasound guided biopsy

Biopsy procedures for suspected DCIS should be performed by a qualified radiologist or surgeon and patients should not hesitate to ask the doctor about their training and prior experience with biopsy procedures before consenting to undergo a biopsy procedure.