Cell Block-Based Two-Dimensional and Immunocytochemical Analyses Could Reduce Atypical/Indeterminate Case Frequency in Breast Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: In fine-needle aspiration of the breast (FNAB), the "atypical" category encompasses both benign and malignant lesions, particularly papillary proliferative lesions, as per the latest WHO classification. We aimed to reduce atypical cases and improve diagnostic accuracy by investigating the utility of cell block (CB) analysis.

Methods: FNAB CB samples (2018-2022) were reviewed using smear only or CBs. CB-based diagnosis was performed with 2D morphological analysis and immunocytochemistry using ER, CK5/6, p63, SMA, and CD56. Samples were reclassified as "benign," "atypical," "suspicious of malignancy," "malignant," or "insufficient/inadequate." Atypical cases were reexamined. Diagnoses were validated histologically.

Results: On examining the FNAB samples (n = 149; 32 atypical), 2D CB sectioning achieved a clearer definition of myoepithelial cells and fibrovascular cores than Papanicolaou staining. Immunocytochemistry was evaluated for 36 cases: estrogen receptor (ER)- and CK5/6+ tumors were reclassified as benign; ER+ and CK5/6- tumors as malignant; p63- tumors as invasive; papillary malignant tumors with a smooth muscle actin (SMA)+ fibrovascular core and p63- myoepithelial cells as encapsulated papillary carcinoma; and CD56+ carcinomas as neuroendocrine carcinoma. Diagnostic rates were as follows: benign (44% FNAB, 51% CB), atypical (21% FNAB, 3% CB), suspicious of malignancy and malignant (28% FNAB, 40% CB), and insufficient/inadequate (7% FNAB, 6% CB). CB achieved >85% sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values.

Conclusion: CBs represent 3D FNA cell morphology using 2D sections, enabling adaption of pathology criteria to the cytological material. Immunocytochemical staining of CBs can predict low nuclear grade papillary tumors and reduce atypical case frequency, improving diagnostic accuracy.

Keywords: Breast neoplasm; Cell block; Diagnostic accuracy; Fine-needle aspiration; Immunocytochemistry.