metastatic intramammary lymph node

A metastatic intramammary lymph node refers to an intramammary lymph node involved with metastatic or malignant disease.

Radiographic features

Breast ultrasound

Sonographic features that suggest metastatic involvement include :

• disappearance or loss of central echogenic hilar region
• marked hypoechogenicity
• increase in size
• lobulated outer contours

Different authors put different emphasis on cortical measurement and nodal morphology to predict malignant nodal involvement.

Cho et al.  developed a grading system of cortical thickness by proposing a thickness of 2.5 mm or more as an indication for cytology/histology assessment.

Bedi et al.  developed these categories:

• type 1: without visible cortex
• type 2: cortex ≤3 mm
• type 3: cortex >3 mm
  • frequently reactional changes
• type 4: entirely lobulated cortex
  • considered as probably benign
• type 5: with focal lobulation
  • suspicious, indication for biopsy
• type 6: completely hypoechogenic, without hilum
  • suspicious, indication for biopsy

Siehe auch:

• intramammäre Lymphknoten