An analysis of fine needle aspiration versus core needle biopsy in clinically palpable breast lesions: a report on the predictive values and a cost comparison

BACKGROUND: Although fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is an established tool in the biopsy of breast masses, there has been a trend toward using core-needle biopsy (CNB). The aim of this study was to determine whether FNA has comparable predictive value with CNB and whether FNA is more cost effective. METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted on 162 patients who underwent either FNA or CNB of palpable breast lesions and had histologic confirmation with surgical biopsy in calendar year 2005. RESULTS: There were no false-positives or false-negatives in either group. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value for FNA were 89%, 98%, and 94%, respectively. CNB had sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of 100%, 90%, and 93%, respectively. The cost to perform FNA was $166.34, compared with $477.92 for CNB. CONCLUSIONS: FNA and CNB had comparable predictive value, with FNA being more cost effective. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.