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Review
. 2003 Oct;56(10):721-4.
doi: 10.1136/jcp.56.10.721.

Pathology and clinical relevance of radial scars: a review

M Kennedy  1 , A V Masterson, M Kerin, F Flanagan
Affiliations
Review

Pathology and clinical relevance of radial scars: a review

M Kennedy et al. J Clin Pathol. 2003 Oct.

Abstract

Radial scar (RS) is a benign, well recognised, radiological and pathological entity. Histologically, it is characterised by a fibroelastotic core with entrapped ducts and surrounding radiating ducts and lobules. Postmortem studies indicate that these lesions are present commonly in the population, especially in association with benign breast disease. In recent years, their clinical relevance has assumed more importance with the introduction of population based screening programmes. The exact pathogenesis of RS is unknown. Accumulating evidence indicates that they are associated with atypia and/or malignancy and, in addition, may be an independent risk factor for the development of carcinoma in either breast. In view of the association with atypia and malignancy, excision biopsy is justified in RS, although it has been argued that core biopsy evaluation and surveillance may be appropriate in selected patients.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Characteristic mammographic appearance of radial scar.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Low power view of radial scar with central fibroelastotic core and radiating ducts (haematoxylin and eosin stained).
Figure 3
Figure 3
(A) Small radial scar (RS) demonstrating an elastotic centre with a corona of hyperplastic ducts and lobules; (B) central atrophic ducts in an elastotic stroma; (C) medium power view of ducts showing epithelial hyperplasia; (D) perineural invasion at the edge of a benign RS (haematoxylin and eosin stained).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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