Radial Scars of the Breast Encountered at Core Biopsy: Review of Histologic, Imaging, and Management Considerations

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. The purposes of this article are to place the controversy over the management of radial scars diagnosed at core biopsy in perspective and to define reasonable management options. CONCLUSION. The management of radial scars after image-guided core biopsy of the breast for diagnosis remains controversial. Although current literature suggests no premalignant potential of these lesions, it does not fully explain the small but real percentage of these lesions that are upgraded to malignancy after surgical excision. This upgrade phenomenon is probably best explained by core biopsy sampling error. A recommendation minimizing this possibility based on lesion size seems reasonable.