Radial Scar

Radial Scar of the Breast: What It Is and How It Is Managed

The radial breast scar is one benign but complex lesion that causes hardening of the breast tissue. It is usually found in women aged 40 to 60 years old and constitutes pathological finding, that is, it is detected after Biopsy and microscopic examination of a suspicious area.

Although it is a benign condition, the radial scar may look like malignancy on mammography – something that is seen in about 1 in 1000 mammograms. This is why its accurate diagnosis is often difficult.

Is Surgical Treatment Necessary?

Treatment depends on the characteristics of the lesion. In approximately 15% of cases the initial biopsy may underestimate the situation, and there is hidden malignancy not detected in the original specimens. In cases where the radial scar presents with atypical hyperplasia or other suspicious lesions, surgical removal is recommended. In isolated radial scars, regular follow-up with imaging may be sufficient.

While a benign lesion, the presence of a radial scar has been linked with a slightly increased risk of developing breast cancer, especially when associated with atypical changes.

What Happens After Removal?

If after Surgical removal If no further damage is found, then no further treatment or management is required. In any case, it is important to be monitored regularly under the guidance of your doctor.

At Breastaware.gr , we provide reliable and clear information on all breast conditions, aiming to give you confidence and help you make the right decisions for your health. Stay tuned for more helpful updates!

Bibliography:

1. Kennedy M, Masterson AV, Kerin M, Flanagan F. Pathology and clinical relevance of radial scars: a review. Journal of Clinical Pathology, 2003; 56(10):721–724.
2. Chou WYY, Veis DJ, Aft R. μRadial scar on image-guided breast biopsy: is surgical excision necessary? Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, 2018; 170(2):313–320.
3. Kim EMH, Hankins A, Cassity J, et al. μIsolated radial scar diagnosis by core-needle biopsy: Is surgical excision necessary? SpringerPlus, 2016; 5:398.
4. Becker L, Trop I, David J, et al. μManagement of radial scars found at percutaneous breast biopsy. Canadian Association of Radiologists Journal, 2006; 57(2):72–78.
5. Aroner SA, Collins LC, Connolly JL, et al. μRadial scars and subsequent breast cancer risk: Results from the Nurses' Health Studies. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, 2017; 165(1):145–153.