FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION CYTOLOGY OF BREAST LUMPS WITH THEIR HISTOPATHOLOGICAL CORRELATION

Breast cancer is a signicant global health burden, affecting millions of women worldwide and contributing to a high number of cancer-related deaths[1]. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an estimated 2.3 million new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in 2020, accounting for 11.7% of all cancer cases worldwide[2]. Moreover, breast cancer caused approximately 685,000 deaths, making it the fth leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally[2]. Recent studies indicate that breast cancer is the most common cancer among Indian women, accounting for 14% of all cancer cases[3–6]. The incidence rates have been rising steadily over the years, attributed to a combination of factors such as changing lifestyles, urbanization, delayed childbearing, hormonal factors, and limited awareness about breast health[7]. Several risk factors contribute to the development of breast cancer, including age, gender, family history, genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 and BRCA2), reproductive factors, hormonal inuences, obesity, alcohol consumption, and exposure to ionizing radiation[7]. Early detection plays a critical role in reducing morbidity and mortality. Breast self-examination, clinical breast examination, mammography, and tissue biopsy are key tools for early detection, allowing for timely intervention and improved treatment outcomes[5,8]. Several conditions ranging from benign breast diseases (e.g., brocystic changes, broadenoma, intraductal papilloma's) Inammatory Conditions (e.g. mastitis, abscess), hormonal changes, traumatic lesion, fat necrosis to rapidly spreading & fatal malignant cancers can initially present with only a lump in the breast without any associated symptoms[9]. Accurate evaluation of breast lumps involves a comprehensive approach, including thorough clinical assessment, focusing on the characteristics of the lump, associated symptoms, and presence of risk factors[10–13].