[Real-time sonography in breast diagnosis. Indication and value]

Abstract

With improvement in ultrasound technique, sonography is gaining increasing importance in the evaluation of breast lesions. The following conclusions are drawn on the basis of experience in the use of real-time sonography in 200 patients. Palpable masses are most suitable for examination by sonography, whereas the diagnostic yield in diffuse breast disease is relatively low. The most important task is the differentiation between benign cystic and solid masses. Differential diagnosis of solid tumours may be difficult or even impossible and biopsy should not be carried out solely on the basis of a sonographic examination. Palpation and mammography must still be considered as basic methods of examination, which may be successfully complemented by sonography.