Imprint cytology from ultrasound-guided core biopsies: accurate and immediate diagnosis in a one-stop breast clinic

AIM: To investigate whether imprint cytology from ultrasound-guided core biopsy specimens was adequate for the National Health Service Breast Screening Programme (NHSBSP) guidelines. METHODS: We prospectively audited imprint cytology from ultrasound-guided core biopsy specimens. The performance indicators for imprint cytology specimens from 111 consecutive ultrasound -guided core biopsy were compared with standards set by the NHSBSP for fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). RESULTS: Imprint cytology fulfilled the "preferred" targets for absolute and complete sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, false-positive and false-negative rates, inadequate rate and inadequate rate from cancers. It also satisfied the minimum target for suspicious rate. The complete sensitivity was 97%, full specificity 78%, with 100% positive predictive value for C5 cytology and an inadequate rate from cancers of 1.5%. CONCLUSION: Imprint cytology from ultrasound-guided core biopsy allows same-day diagnosis and the collection of data regarding the grade of the carcinoma for treatment decisions from a single needle test. (C) 2004 The Royal College of Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All. rights reserved.