Intraoperative Detection of Axillary Metastasis of Breast Cancer Using Nucleic Acid Amplification Methods: Review of Advantages and Limitations Publisher Pubmed



D Safari DORSA ; S Razi SEPIDEH ; N Rezaei NIMA
Source: Expert Review of Molecular Diagnostics Published:2025

Abstract

Introduction: In the management of breast cancer, the need for assessment of axillary status has been questionable in recent years. However, it is still applicable for making a decision on adjuvant therapy and evaluating the prognosis. Molecular tests have been widely used for intraoperative detection of axillary lymph node metastases and have prevented a second surgery for dissection of the lymph nodes in at least 20% of the cases. Unlike histopathological examination, molecular tests do not need a specialized technologist to provide the results. Areas covered: We have reviewed recent advancements in the assessment of axillary nodes by molecular studies such as one-step nucleic acid amplification (OSNA) assay and metasin test. Our work concentrated on reported thresholds for the tests, economical aspects, and newly developed devices throughout the current literature. Expert opinion: Well-designed clinical trials on molecular assays could lead to individualized management of the axillary, while preventing additional surgical operations in a large proportion of women with breast cancer. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.