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The human breast is composed of multiple lobular-alveolar systems that open onto the surface of the nipple. Most breast cancers are thought to arise from the epithelial cells linking the ductal-lobular junctions of these structures.
Intraductal approaches encompass procedures and technologies that are designed to access and interrogate the ductal-alveolar systems of the human breast, and include nipple aspiration, ductal lavage, and ductoscopy.
The intraductal approach is being used to collect and analyze fluids and cells to develop methods for breast cancer prevention, detection, and risk assessment; to explore the mammary tree for abnormalities; to administer therapeutic or preventive agents directly into the breast ducts; and to explore the anatomy and physiology of the normal mammary gland.
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