[Comparison of the diagnostic value of the individual examination steps (triple diagnosis) in breast cysts].

Basic examination (palpation and mammography) as well as triple diagnosis (sonography, aspiration cytology, pneumocystography) are employed in the diagnosis and therapy of mamma cysts. Among 133 aspirated cysts we found by sonography 6 complicated cysts; 4 of these were cyst wall carcinomas. We found one further complicated cyst by aspiration cytology with a PAP IV; therefore, this sonographically uncomplicated cyst was extirpated as well resulting in cystic mastopathy without any signs of malignancy. Sonography and pneumocystography agreed perfectly in the diagnosis of cysts. Additionally mammography revealed 3 occult carcinomas located beside uncomplicated cysts. Hence, in no case should mammography be omitted. Sonography is a reliable instrument in judging cysts; therefore, aspiration cytology or pneumocystography may be left out in special cases.