Galactography: An application of the galactogram imaging classification system (GICS)

Abstract

Background: Galactography is the technique of choice for investigating pathological nipple discharge. However, there is no standardized interpretation system for this procedure. Purpose: To evaluate radiological and histological correlation using a Galactogram Imaging Classification System (GICS). Material and Methods: We retrospectively studied all galactograms obtained in 62 women with pathological nipple discharge who subsequently had biopsy at our institution between 1999 and 2007. The GICS proposes five categories for galactographic findings: GICS 1: negative; GICS 2: benign; GICS 3: probably benign; GICS 4: suspect for malignancy; GICS 5: highly suspect for malignancy. Results: The galactographic findings were classified as follows: GICS 2: 25.8% (16/62); GICS 3: 30.6% (19/62); GICS 4: 25.8% (16/62); and GICS 5: 17.7% (11/62). A good correlation was observed between histological diagnosis and GICS categories ( P < 0.05). All the cases diagnosed with carcinoma ( n = 11) were classified in GICS category 5. Conclusion: The present study shows a good correlation between GICS categories and histological diagnosis.