Background: A complex cystic and solid breast mass is defined as a cystic structure containing a thick wall, internal septations, or a solid intracystic component. The differential is broad, ranging from benign to malignant entities, which are difficult to distinguish based on imaging alone. This multi-modality imaging review will enhance radiologists’ understanding of benign, elevated risk and malignant etiologies presenting as complex cystic and solid breast masses. Pathologic correlation will highlight distinctive cellular features of these entities and provide deeper insight into these important disease processes.
Learning Objectives: Define complex cystic and solid masses using the BI-RADS lexicon Present a pictorial review of benign and malignant entities presenting as complex cystic and solid masses, including multi-modality imaging and pathology correlation Highlight imaging findings that necessitate biopsy Enhance radiologists’ understanding of some of the subtle cellular distinctions among these entities
Abstract Content/Results: This multi-modality imaging review will include radiologic-pathologic correlation of the following nine entities: abscess, galactocele, granulomatous mastitis (benign); atypical papilloma, atypical lobular hyperplasia, atypical ductal hyperplasia (elevated risk); invasive ductal carcinoma, mucinous carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma (malignant).
Conclusion: This exhibit will enhance radiologists' understanding of imaging findings and their correlation with pathology in the context of complex cystic and solid masses: spanning benign, elevated-risk and malignant causes. The differentiation between these entities will provide valuable insights for informed biopsy decisions and patient management.
