Diagnostic Strategy in the Management of Patients with Breast Symptoms: A recommended design and present experience

Abstract

The diagnostic problems in patients with breast symptoms have increased as the referral pattern has changed. Patients with vague symptoms and atypical palpatory findings are increasing in number. At the same time, the doctor is faced with the demand for greater diagnostic accuracy and, paradoxically, restraint in the use of diagnostic methods. Accordingly, high priority must be given to an effective diagnostic strategy without unnecessary investigations and delaying procedures. Above all, efforts must aim at reducing the number of ‘unnecessary’ benign biopsies. We are presenting a suggestion for an integrated diagnostic system based upon close collaboration between the general practitioner on one hand and radiologist, surgeon, and pathologist as the expert hospital team on the other. This design has not only entailed greater diagnostic accuracy, it also complies with the demand for conservation of resources.

Key Words:

• Breast symptoms
• diagnostic strategy
• mammography
• biopsy