FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology)
FNAC is a diagnostic procedure used to investigate lumps or masses in the body. It is a minimally invasive technique that involves extracting a small sample of cells from a suspicious lump using a thin, hollow needle for microscopic examination.
1. Purpose of FNAC
FNAC is used for diagnosing:
- Cancerous (malignant) and non-cancerous (benign) tumors
- Infections (like tuberculosis or abscesses)
- Inflammatory conditions
- Thyroid nodules
- Lymph node enlargement
- Salivary gland disorders
- Breast lumps
2. Procedure
- Preparation: The area is cleaned with an antiseptic. Local anesthesia is usually not required unless the patient experiences discomfort.
- Aspiration: A fine, hollow needle (22–27 gauge) is inserted into the lump. The doctor moves the needle back and forth to collect cells. Sometimes, ultrasound or CT guidance is used for deep-seated lesions.
- Sample Processing: The collected material is spread on a glass slide and stained for microscopic examination by a pathologist.
- Post-procedure: A small bandage is applied. Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
3. Advantages of FNAC
- ✅ Minimally invasive – No surgical incision is required.
- ✅ Quick results – Typically available within a few hours to a couple of days.
- ✅ Safe & cost-effective – Less expensive than a biopsy.
- ✅ Low risk – Minimal complications like mild pain or bleeding.
4. Limitations of FNAC
- ❌ False negatives – Sometimes, FNAC may not collect enough abnormal cells.
- ❌ Cannot assess tissue structure – Unlike biopsy, FNAC does not provide information about tissue architecture.
- ❌ May require additional tests – If results are inconclusive, a core biopsy or surgical biopsy may be needed.
5. FNAC vs Biopsy
| Feature |
FNAC |
Biopsy |
| Invasiveness |
Minimally invasive |
More invasive |
| Needle Type |
Thin, fine needle |
Thicker needle or surgical incision |
| Tissue Sample |
Only cells |
Larger tissue with structure |
| Turnaround Time |
Fast (same day to a few days) |
Slower (a few days to a week) |
| Accuracy |
Good for initial diagnosis |
More accurate for definitive diagnosis |
6. When is FNAC Preferred?
FNAC is preferred when:
- A quick preliminary diagnosis is needed.
- A lump is easily accessible (e.g., thyroid, breast, lymph nodes).
- A less invasive method is desired.
However, if FNAC results are inconclusive or if tissue structure analysis is required, a biopsy may be necessary.
Would you like details on a specific type of FNAC, such as for the thyroid, breast, or lymph nodes? 😊
