FOLLOW-UP EXAMINATIONS OF SONOGRAPHIC AND MAMMOGRAPHIC FINDINGS AFTERBREAST-PRESERVING THERAPY AND IRRADIATION

Aim The aim of our controlled retrospective study was to assess the di agnostic value of sonography for detection and characterisation of cha nges compared to mammography and palpation. Method In 80 patients sono graphic and clinical follow-up examinations were performed every 3 to 6 months, mammography examinations were performed every 6 to 12 months during the first 2 years after breast-preserving therapy (BPT) and ir radiation. Extension, echogenicity, and configuration of lesions in so nography, and semiquantitative description of diffuse or circumscribed changes in mammography were the basis of comparative follow-up observ ation. Results Postoperative seromas and haematomas, initially present ing echo-free or as hypoechoic lesions, showed an increase in echogeni city within 18 months after irradiation. Fat necrosis occurred in 9.5% of patients, lymph cysts developed in 4%, granuloma in 3%, recurrence of neoplasma in 1.6%. The diffuse loss of transparency in mammography that was associated with radiation therapy, showed a peak 6-12 months after irradiation. Conclusion Sonography and sonographic guided punct ure are mandatory tools to characterise circumscribed unclear lesions after breast-conserving therapy and irradiation in specialised centers . We recommend a 6-month interval for combined sonography, palpation, and mammography within the first 2 years after BPT and irradiation, be cause shorter control intervals did not result in relevant diagnostic advantages.