A new score for the evaluation of palpable breast masses in women under age 40.

Background: The purpose of this study was to develop a rapid and accurate diagnostic test for palpable breast masses in women under age 40.

Methods: Masses were evaluated utilitzing a modified triple test score (MTTS), which assigned scores of 1 point for benign, 2 points for suspicious, or 3 points for malignant findings from physical examination, ultrasonography, and fine needle aspiration. The MTTS was the sum of the three scores and was correlated with biopsy or follow-up.

Results: Among 113 masses, 100 scored 3 points, 8 scored 4 points; all were benign. Three scored 5 points; 1 was malignant. Two scored >or=6 points: both were malignant.

Conclusions: The MTTS has 100% diagnostic accuracy when other than 5 points. Masses scoring or=6 points may proceed to definitive therapy. Masses scoring 5 points (3%) require biopsy. This approach avoids open biopsy in the majority of cases, while capturing all malignancies.