Non-palpable mammographic abnormalities.

The radiological characteristics of non-palpable mammographic abnormalities are reviewed and their diagnostic limitations discussed. Alternative methods of detection and diagnosis are reviewed. The development of needle localization for non-palpable mammographic abnormalities is traced from the initial crude excisions through to stereotactic needle localization. Non-palpable carcinomas have a greater proportion of favourable histopathologies. However, the preferred management of these early lesions has yet to be determined.