Table 1.

Compliance with Algorithm for Common Breast Problems(3)^*

Clinical Problem	Appropriate Evaluation
Mammographic abnormality on screening exam  with no history or physical exam findings  of a breast lump
Biopsy recommended	Biopsy (open, core)
Additional imaging	Clinical breast exam within the 12 mo prior to the index mammogram  and the additional imaging suggested by the radiologist  (e.g., magnification views, ultrasound, follow-up mammogram)
Palpable breast mass or lump with normal  or probably benign mammogram result	Ultrasound demonstrating a cyst, or aspiration of fluid, and follow-up  breast exam or ultrasound to exclude persistence or recurrence of the  finding. (if there is recurrence or persistence of the finding, the patient  should be referred to a surgeon), or
	Follow-up breast exam documenting resolution, or
	Biopsy (i.e., open, core) of any persistent mass or nodularity
Breast pain persisting for more than  1 mo (without lump)	Clinical breast exam within 12 mo of the index mammogram and a  normal or probably benign mammogram result

^*The source of the algorithm was Smith (1995).³