Mammography and breast ultrasound examinations now allow us to detect breast alterations earlier and more precisely. However, even the most advanced diagnostic methods can never confirm or exclude the presence of a malignant tumor with absolute certainty. Only a tissue biopsy (»Core-Biopsy«) alllows a definitive diagnosis.
A Core-Biopsy is usually performed in an outpatient setting and takes about 30 minutes. A 5 millimeter skin incision is carried out under local anesthesia before a bore-needle is shoved towards the malignant tumor. In tumors too small to palpate, this procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance. By using a high-speed punching apparatus, several small tissue samples are obtained. The samples are then analyzed under a microscope. If the histological analysis confirms the cancer diagnosis, a number of furhter examinations follow. Markers that are evaluated in Core-Biopsies specimen include hormone receptors and the cell surface protein HER-2. These analyses help to determine whether a particular tumor is responsive to anti-endocrine therapy regimen or whether a specific antibody therapy will be effective. This information is particularly valuable in larger tumors where such therapies are very often carried out even before the operation. Since the biopsy is performed under local anesthaesia, it is painless and the small incision site usually heals within days. Complications such as hematomas or wound infections are seldom and can usually be well treated.
