Aspirationscytologi

Aspirationscytologi, commonly referred to as fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC), is a diagnostic method in pathology that uses a fine-gauge needle to withdraw cellular material from a lesion or organ for cytological examination. The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient setting and may involve local anesthesia. A thin needle is inserted into the target lesion, and suction may be applied or a capillary technique used, depending on the context. The obtained material is smeared onto glass slides, fixed, and stained for microscopic evaluation. In some cases residual material is prepared as a cell block or used for ancillary studies.

Indications include the evaluation of palpable masses such as thyroid nodules, breast lumps, lymph nodes, salivary glands, and soft tissue lesions, as well as sampling of thoracic or abdominal lesions with imaging guidance (ultrasound, CT). The aim is to obtain representative cells that allow cytopathologists to distinguish benign from malignant processes, identify infections or granulomatous diseases, and provide rapid diagnostic information to guide management.

Interpretation yields categories such as benign, malignant, suspicious/atypical, or non-diagnostic. Adequacy of the sample is a key quality criterion, and results are integrated with clinical and radiologic findings. While FNAC is minimally invasive and rapid, limitations include insufficient cellular material, inability to assess tissue architecture, and occasional sampling error. In some cases, core needle biopsy or surgical excision is needed for histology or immunohistochemistry.

Complications are uncommon but can include bleeding, infection, or pain at the puncture site. The technique requires trained cytopathologists or cytotechnologists and appropriate quality assurance.