Predictive factors of residual invasive breast cancer after core biopsy for ductal carcinoma in situ

Purpose: We wanted to identify the clinicopathologic factors that predict the presence of invasive cancer after core biopsy for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Methods: The patients diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ on core biopsy (stereotactic or ultrasound) from February 2003 to May 2007 were identified by retrospectively reviewing the collected data. We analyzed the demographic data, the characteristics on the imaging studies and the histologic features on DCIS. We assessed the factors that included age, the physical examination, the radiologic findings, the biopsy method, and the histologic findings related to the presence of invasive cancer after core biopsy. Results: Fifty-one patients were diagnosed with DCIS after core biopsy. Of the 51 patients, 19 patients had invasive carcinoma diagnosed on final excision. The factors that correlated with invasion were the biopsy method, a palpable mass and a mammographic mass, regardless of calcification. A high nuclear grade, the comedo type, age, and the tumor size were not related to presence of invasive cancer. Conclusion: A mass lesion on mammography, a palpable mass, and 14G core needle biopsy were significant predictors of invasion in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ. Surgeons always recognize the possibility of invasive cancer in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ on the core needle biopsy.