PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which imaging technique is often used along with ultrasound for evaluating complex breast masses?

1. MRI

2. X-ray

3. Core-needle biopsy

4. CT scan

The correct answer is: Core-needle biopsy

The use of core-needle biopsy in conjunction with ultrasound is a common practice for evaluating complex breast masses. This technique allows for targeted sampling of suspicious areas within the breast tissue, providing valuable cytological information that can help ascertain whether a mass is benign or malignant. By using ultrasound to guide the biopsy needle, clinicians can accurately obtain tissue from areas that are difficult to assess through imaging alone. While MRI is often utilized to gain detailed insights into the breast's anatomy and assess the characteristics of masses, it is not the direct tissue sampling method that a core-needle biopsy provides. X-rays can identify breast abnormalities but lack the specificity for complex masses. CT scans are typically not the primary choice for breast evaluation, as they expose patients to more radiation and are less effective in visualizing soft tissue details compared to ultrasound and MRI. Therefore, core-needle biopsy stands out as an essential complement to ultrasound in the evaluation of complex breast masses, facilitating precise diagnosis and aiding in treatment planning.