An analysis of fine needle aspiration versus core needle biopsy in clinically palpable breast lesions: a report on the predictive values and a cost comparison

BackgroundAlthough fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is an established tool in the biopsy of breast masses, there has been a trend toward using core-needle biopsy (CNB). The aim of this study was to determine whether FNA has comparable predictive value with CNB and whether FNA is more cost effective.MethodsA retrospective review was conducted on 162 patients who underwent either FNA or CNB of palpable breast lesions and had histologic confirmation with surgical biopsy in calendar year 2005.ResultsThere were no false-positives or false-negatives in either group. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value for FNA were 89%, 98%, and 94%, respectively. CNB had sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value of 100%, 90%, and 93%, respectively. The cost to perform FNA was $166.34, compared with $477.92 for CNB.ConclusionsFNA and CNB had comparable predictive value, with FNA being more cost effective.