Breast Biopsy Complications: Bleeding and Bruising Concerns

Q: Breast Biopsy Complications: Bleeding and Bruising Concerns

Dear Ms. <br>Huang：<br>1. <br>If the biopsy is performed using a thick needle, the wound will only have a small puncture, and bleeding is less likely to occur, which may lead to bruising and swelling in the breast, primarily around the area of tenderness. <br>If a blood vessel is

Breast tumor biopsy

My mother is 72 years old.
Last week she experienced breast pain, and when she visited a large hospital outpatient clinic this Monday, the doctor discovered a tumor.
That evening, a biopsy was arranged.
After returning home, her breast became severely bruised, and the next day she had bleeding from the biopsy site.
She went to a nearby clinic for a dressing change, but the bleeding continued at home, and the bruising worsened, turning black.
Additionally, the area of the bruise felt hard when pressed.
She had to return to the original large hospital's emergency department, where the emergency doctor stitched the wound, prescribed medication, and advised her to apply ice.
I would like to ask if bleeding after a biopsy, severe bruising, and hardness in the bruised area are normal, and whether this indicates an unfavorable situation regarding the tumor.
We are very concerned.
Also, could you please advise on how to care for her? Thank you!

Miss Huang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/11

Dr. Zhou Jiazhen reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Ms.
Huang:
1.
If the biopsy is performed using a thick needle, the wound will only have a small puncture, and bleeding is less likely to occur, which may lead to bruising and swelling in the breast, primarily around the area of tenderness.
If a blood vessel is encountered, there may be continuous bleeding, which can usually be managed with pressure to stop the bleeding.
The bruising will typically resolve on its own (please note if you are taking anticoagulants; if so, you should discontinue the medication).
2.
If the diagnosis is malignant, surgical excision or chemotherapy may be necessary, and you can discuss this with your physician.

Reply Date: 2016/05/11

More Info

Breast biopsies are common procedures used to diagnose breast abnormalities, including tumors. While they are generally safe, complications can occur, and it is important to understand what to expect and how to manage any issues that arise post-procedure.

In your mother's case, the symptoms she is experiencing—severe bruising, bleeding, and hardness in the breast tissue—can be concerning, but they are not uncommon after a biopsy. Here’s a breakdown of what might be happening:
1. Bruising and Bleeding: After a breast biopsy, it is normal for some bruising to occur. The procedure involves inserting a needle or making a small incision to obtain tissue samples, which can damage small blood vessels in the area, leading to bruising. The severity of bruising can vary based on individual factors such as skin type, age, and the presence of any blood clotting disorders. In older adults, like your mother, the skin is often thinner and more susceptible to bruising.
Bleeding can also occur, especially if the biopsy was more invasive or if there was significant manipulation of the tissue. If the bleeding is persistent or heavy, it is important to seek medical attention, as this may indicate a need for further evaluation or intervention.

2. Hardness in the Breast: The hardness in the area where the biopsy was performed could be due to a hematoma, which is a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels. This can occur when blood leaks into the surrounding tissue after the biopsy. Hematomas can feel firm or hard to the touch and may take time to resolve.
3. Indications of Tumor Status: While the presence of bruising and hardness can be alarming, they do not necessarily indicate that the tumor is aggressive or that the situation is dire. These symptoms are more related to the body's response to the biopsy itself. However, it is crucial to follow up with the healthcare provider to monitor the situation and ensure that the healing process is proceeding as expected.

4. Care and Management: To care for the biopsy site and manage symptoms, here are some recommendations:
- Ice Packs: Applying ice packs to the bruised area can help reduce swelling and discomfort. It is advisable to do this for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, especially in the first 48 hours after the procedure.

- Rest: Encourage your mother to rest and avoid strenuous activities that could exacerbate bleeding or discomfort.

- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation, but it is important to consult with her healthcare provider before administering any medication.

- Monitoring: Keep an eye on the symptoms. If the bleeding does not stop, if the bruising worsens significantly, or if there are signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, or discharge from the biopsy site), seek medical attention promptly.

5. Follow-Up: It is essential for your mother to have a follow-up appointment with her healthcare provider. They can assess the biopsy site, check for any complications, and discuss the results of the biopsy once they are available. This is also a good opportunity to address any concerns regarding the tumor and the next steps in her care.

In summary, while the symptoms your mother is experiencing can be concerning, they are not uncommon after a breast biopsy. With appropriate care and monitoring, she should be able to recover. However, it is crucial to maintain open communication with her healthcare team to ensure any potential complications are addressed promptly.

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