Enhancement of Mammographic–Pathologic Correlation Utilizing Large Format Histology for Malignant Breast Disease

Abstract

The use of large format histology in the pathological examination of breast specimens offers many advantages over traditional histological processing, one of which is enhanced radiologic–pathologic correlation. The utility of this technique in malignant breast disease with emphasis on those lesions presenting with a mass or architectural distortion on breast imaging will be discussed. We have utilized the large format histology technique in our independent pathology laboratory servicing a two-campus community hospital system in Lynchburg, VA for 6 years, incorporating it into our routine handling of excisional breast specimens since early 2000. In the period from March 2000 to March 2006, we have processed 1091 blocks from 618 breast cancer cases. This includes 19% of all infiltrating ductal carcinomas, 25% of all invasive lobular carcinomas, and 43% of all cases of pure ductal carcinoma in situ diagnosed in Lynchburg during the period.