Characteristics and treatment of breast cancers 10 mm or less detected by a mammographic screening programme.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Small invasive breast cancers up to 10 mm in size have an excellent prognosis and are being detected in increasing numbers by mammographic screening, yet optimal treatment remains controversial. METHODS: A review was made of pathology and treatment data relating to 100 consecutive invasive breast cancers up to 10 mm in size detected among 52,126 women who were screened over a 32-month period. RESULTS: The most common radiological finding was a stellate lesion (44%). Thirty-three cases had an extensive in situ component in addition to the invasive tumour, and included among these were seven ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) cases with microinvasion. Of 79 patients who had axillary d..