Diagnostic Test
Pneumocystography
Description
Pneumocystography is a diagnostic and therapeutic technique that allows visualisation of the interior of a breast cyst. After aspiration of the cyst fluid under ultrasound guidance, air is introduced as negative contrast to obtain detailed images of the inner wall of the cyst and rule out intracystic lesions (papillomas, carcinomas). In addition to diagnosis, it has a therapeutic effect by reducing or eliminating the cyst.
Practical Information
20-30 minutes
No special preparation required. Do not apply creams or deodorant in the breast area on the day of the test. Performed under local anaesthesia. Do not stop anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs on your own — this must be indicated by the professional who prescribed them.
Price according to health insurance / private patient
Indications and Recommendations
- Complex breast cysts with internal echoes
- Cysts with bloody content or suspicious appearance
- Evaluation of lesions in the cyst wall
- Symptomatic or recurrent cysts
Risks and Complications
- Pain or discomfort during the puncture
- Local bruising
- Infection (uncommon)
- Vasovagal reaction (dizziness)
- Recurrence of the cyst, as the procedure does not always resolve it permanently
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pneumocystography and what is it used for?
Pneumocystography allows examination of the interior of a breast cyst from within. After emptying the cyst with a puncture, air is introduced that acts as contrast. This allows detection of projections or irregularities in the cyst wall that might indicate a lesion and, at the same time, treats the cyst by emptying it.
Do all breast cysts need pneumocystography?
No. Simple cysts (completely anechoic on ultrasound) do not need pneumocystography or special follow-up. It is only indicated when the cyst has complex characteristics (internal echoes, irregular wall, bloody content) or when it is very large and symptomatic. Your radiologist will tell you if it is necessary.
Is pneumocystography painful?
It is performed under local anaesthesia, so the cyst puncture is practically painless. Air injection may produce a feeling of tension or slight pressure in the breast, which disappears within minutes. It is a well-tolerated procedure.