METHOD AND KIT FOR OBTAINING FLUIDS AND CELLULAR MATERIAL FROM BREAST DUCTS

摘要

Methods, kits, and apparatus for obtaining cellular, chemical, and othermaterials from breast ducts are described. A single milk ductis accessed and washed with a washing fluid to obtain marker materials fromthe lining of the duct. The washing fluid is then collected, andthe marker materials in the washing fluid identified and analyzed. Usually,the washing fluid is introduced using a syringe through a lumenof a dual-lumen catheter. The ductal volume is filled with the washing fluidand excess fluid flows outwardly through a second lumen ofthe dual-lumen catheter, from which it is collected. Methods and kits providefor collection of fluid and cells by a lavage procedure thatincludes applying external pressure to the breast to improve the yield offluid and cells from the breast duct.