Ultrasound-Guided Core Needle Biopsy to Assess Sensitivity and Specificity of Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis in Breast Cancer

Sensitivity and Specificity of Ultrasound-Guided Core Needle Biopsy in Evaluating Axillary Lymph Node Metastasis in Breast Cancer

This study plans to find the most suitable lymph node cortex thickness and abnormal lymph node features to define suspicious lymph nodes. Then, ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy of axillary lymph nodes will be done, aiming to provide some guidance for the biopsy.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥18 years and <70 years;
2. Histologically confirmed primary breast cancer;
3. Underwent ultrasound examination to assess axillary lymph node metastasis status.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Presence of other malignancies (e.g., lymphoma, lung cancer, thyroid cancer, etc., with axillary metastasis);
2. Pregnant or lactating women;
3. Previous receipt of neoadjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy;
4. Lymph node metastasis status not confirmed by pathology, or time interval between ultrasound examination and pathological confirmation exceeding 6 weeks.