Variability in the Management Recommendations Given for High-risk Breast Lesions Detected on Image-guided Core Needle Biopsy at U.S. Academic Institutions

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the management recommendations provided in the setting of a high-risk lesion diagnosed on core needle biopsy of the breast at academic institutions across the United States. We contacted breast imagers at U.S. academic institutions via email and asked them to complete a voluntary online survey. The survey consisted of eight questions regarding the management recommendations given when core biopsy yields various high-risk lesions. We received survey responses from 41 of the 59 institutions contacted (69% response rate). Surgical excision was the most frequently reported recommendation given for all high-risk lesions; however, the proportion varied from 95% for atypical ductal hyperplasia and papilloma with associated atypia, 76% for flat epithelial atypia, 73% for radial scar/complex sclerosing lesion, 71% for lobular carcinoma in-situ, 61% for atypical lobular hyperplasia, to 39% for intraductal papilloma without atypia. Our study demonstrates inconsistency in the management recommendations given for high-risk lesions detected on core needle biopsy at academic institutions nationally. This outcome suggests that patients may benefit from the creation of consensus recommendations for the management of high-risk lesions detected on core needle biopsy.