Current management practice of breast borderline lesions—need for further research and guidelines

BackgroundBreast borderline lesions are usually diagnosed on needle biopsies of imaging abnormalities. The natural history of these lesions is unclear, and the literature is divided on appropriate management. It was hypothesized that management varies among surgeons and may be associated with surgeon and practice characteristics.MethodsA survey of 477 members of the American Society of Breast Surgeons was completed. Results were analyzed according to various surgeon and practice characteristics.ResultsMost respondents recommended routine excision for atypical ductal and lobular hyperplasia. Excision of radial scars and papillomas was much more variable, with only 50% recommending routine excision. Results differed by surgical dedication to breast surgery and fellowship training. Management of atypical ductal or lobular hyperplasia found at the margin varied significantly. The lack of a routine tumor board, low breast case volume, and low percentage of breast cases were associated with routine excision in these cases.ConclusionsBreast borderline lesions pose a clinical dilemma, with practice varying greatly among surgeons.