Pneumocystography as an aid in the diagnosis of cystic lesions of the breast.

Pneumocystography is used in Europe in managing breast cysts. This involves aspiration, air insufflation, and completion mammography. Pneumocystography allows accurate delineation of the cyst wall and contents. Pneumocystograms that do not demonstrate intracystic lesions negate the need for cyst excision in many cases. Microcalcifications may become visible after pneumocystography. Intracystic masses, positive cyst fluid cytology, bloody cyst fluid, cyst recurrence, or evidence of an extrinsic mass compressing the cyst are all indications for operation. Intracystic cancers can and do metastasize. Pneumocystography may be beneficial in detecting these cancers.