Breast carcinogenesis: can the examination of ductal fluid enhance our understanding?

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To explore current breast carcinogenesis theories and the possibility of examining breast epithelial cells to confirm steps in the carcinogenic process and the relationship between intraductal sampling techniques and their role in enhanced risk prediction. DATA SOURCES Published articles, textbooks, and conference proceedings. DATA SYNTHESIS Examining breast epithelial cells may provide insight into the carcinogenic process while it is occurring. Methods of extracting breast epithelial cells include nipple aspiration, ductal lavage, and periareolar fine-needle aspiration. CONCLUSIONS Nipple aspiration, ductal lavage, and periareolar fine-needle aspiration are viable means of examining possible precursors to breast tumors. Differentiating between true precursors and benign changes is an important step in breast cancer risk assessment. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING Nipple aspiration and ductal lavage may be performed in an outpatient setting. RNs and advanced practice nurses may perform these procedures and discuss results with patients.