Non-operative breast pathology: lobular neoplasia

Abstract

Lobular neoplasia is a relatively uncommon lesion, which is frequently diagnosed in biopsy specimens taken for other reasons. Although the histological features of this lesion are well known, its biological significance as a "risk indicator" or "breast cancer precursor" has been a matter of debate. This review provides an update on recent clinicopathological and molecular data on lobular neoplasia and how these have changed the way these lesions are perceived and, most importantly, managed. Furthermore, the current recommendations for the management of lobular neoplasia diagnosed on core needle biopsies proposed in the National Health Service Breast Cancer Screening guidelines are discussed.