Classification of fibroepithelial lesions of the breast in core needle biopsy with implications for further management Review
| Authors: | Rakha, E. A.; Quinn, C.; Raymond, W.; Allison, K. H.; Badve, S. S.; Brogi, E.; Callagy, G.; Charafe-Jauffret, E.; Chen, C. J.; Chen, Y. Y.; Collins, L. C.; Cserni, G.; Djerroudi, L.; Jaffer, S.; Foschini, M. P.; Gobbi, H.; Gudi, M.; Harada, O.; Kulka, J.; Kuroda, H.; Lakhani, S. R.; Li, X.; Moriya, T.; O'Toole, S. A.; Pinder, S. E.; Provenzano, E.; Sahin, A. A.; Schmitt, F.; Shaaban, A. M.; Siziopikou, K. P.; Tang, P.; Tse, G. M.; Varga, Z.; Vincent-Salomon, A.; Wen, H.; Yamaguchi, R.; Yang, W.; Fox, S. B.; Schnitt, S. J.; Ellis, I. O.; Tan, P. H. |
| Review Title: | Classification of fibroepithelial lesions of the breast in core needle biopsy with implications for further management |
| Abstract: | Fibroepithelial lesions (FELs) of the breast represent a diverse group of biphasic tumors with varying morphologies and clinical behavior. The classification of FELs is mainly based on a constellation of diagnostic criteria, and intralesional heterogeneity is not uncommon. Therefore, reporting FELs in a core needle biopsy (CNB) with limited tissue material can be challenging as not all the features may be represented for assessment. Differentiating a classic fibroadenoma from a well-sampled phyllodes tumor (PT) is generally straightforward. However, cellular fibroadenoma, morphologically heterogeneous benign PT, and myoid hamartoma can overlap histologically. Accurate grading of PT is also challenging on CNB and carries significant management implications. In this article, we provide an overview and propose a pragmatic approach to reporting FELs on CNB, particularly for lesions with overlapping features. Guidance using the UK/European “B” classification of FELs alongside descriptive reporting of the various lesions, is also presented to aid in management decisions. © 2025 The Authors |
| Keywords: | adult; human tissue; review; breast cancer; phyllodes tumor; diagnosis; needle biopsy; reporting; fibroadenoma; hamartoma; core needle biopsy; human; female; fibroepithelial lesions |
| Journal Title: | Modern Pathology |
| Volume: | 38 |
| Issue: | 5 |
| ISSN: | 0893-3952 |
| Publisher: | Nature Research |
| Date Published: | 2025-05-01 |
| Start Page: | 100734 |
| Language: | English |
| DOI: | 10.1016/j.modpat.2025.100734 |
| PUBMED: | 39947480 |
| PROVIDER: | scopus |
| DOI/URL: | |
| Notes: | The MSK Cancer Center Support Grant (P30 CA008748) is acknowledge in the PDF -- Source: Scopus |
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