Guidelines for the handling of benign and malignant surgical breast specimens

Most histopathology laboratories routinely handle diagnostic and excisional breast surgical specimens, and the range of specimens received is limited. However, the apparent simplicity of breast specimens is often deceptive, and the importance of thorough macroscopic assessment is often underestimated. Surgical techniques vary between institutions, and an understanding of the local surgical protocol is essential for optimal specimen handling. Adequate and appropriate sampling is essential for optimal reporting of the minimum data set information, particularly an accurate assessment of the size of the lesion and the excision margin status. This article offers some guidelines for the handling of benign and malignant surgical breast specimens, including more complex specimens such as excisions following neo-adjuvant therapy.