Stereotactic biopsy is most appropriate for sampling which feature?

• A. Palpable breast mass
• B. Microcalcifications detected on mammography
• C. Lesions visible only on MRI
• D. Lesions seen on CT

Answer: (B)

Microcalcifications detected on mammography are often nonpalpable and may not be visible on ultrasound, making precise localization for sampling essential. A stereotactic biopsy uses mammographic imaging from two different angles to triangulate the exact coordinates of these tiny calcifications and guide the needle to sample them accurately. This method yields tissue from calcified, suspicious areas that are not easily accessible with palpation or ultrasound.

In contrast, a palpable breast mass is typically biopsied with ultrasound guidance when the lesion is visible on ultrasound, or with other guidance methods if not. Lesions seen only on MRI require MRI-guided biopsy, and CT-guided biopsy is not a standard approach for breast lesions.