Breast Pathology

Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Systematic screening of women by mammography and clinical examination has resulted in early diagnosis of breast cancer and a 25% to 30% decrease in mortality. Early breast cancer can be cured with locoregional treatment alone in some cases. However, subclinical…

Gross Examination of Breast Specimens

The subspecialty of breast pathology has grown in complexity as the needs of the end users of our reports have increased in complexity. More sensitive imaging techniques have allowed for identification of clinically and often grossly nonapparent lesions. New surgical…

Patient Safety in Breast Pathology

Despite the long-standing worldwide attention given to the fight against breast cancer, this disease remains a serious illness that affects the physical and emotional well-being of many individuals around the world. As a global public health problem, breast cancer is…

Epidemiology of Breast Cancer

Introduction Breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women other than skin cancers. The average woman in the United States has a lifetime risk of developing breast cancer of about 13%. The American Cancer Society estimates that about…

Infections of the Breast

Breast infection is uncommon in the United States, yet it still occurs, even in neonates. It usually affects women between 18 and 50 years of age. Breast infections in adults can be divided into two basic types: lactational and nonlactational…

Reactive and Inflammatory Conditions of the Breast

Benign, reactive, and inflammatory tumorous conditions of the breast are the most common reasons patients undergo breast biopsies. Benign conditions account for the majority of breast biopsies, and reactive or inflammatory conditions comprise the majority of pathological findings in this…

Breast Development, Physiology, and Histology

Normal Breast The breasts are the distinguishing feature of mammals. The word mammal is derived from mamma which is the Latin term for breast. The breasts have evolved as milk-producing organs to provide appropriate nourishment for offspring and other benefits…