ABSTRACT
To describe the diagnostic yield of USG and CT guided fine needle aspiration cytology/biopsy [FNAC/FNAB] in the bronchogenic carcinoma presenting as localized thoracic mass lesions. Descriptive study. This descriptive study was carried out in the Pulmonology Department, Nishtar Hospital, Multan from March 2011 to Oct 2011. A total of 60 patients were included in the study. All the patients were subjected to bronchoscopy first and then FNAC/B. Out of 60 patients, 40 [66.66%] were males and remaining 20 [33.33%] were females. As regards age of the patients, Most of the [36%] were in the age group 41-50 years. Of the total 60 patients 28 [47%] were smoker. Majority of the patients [72%] belong to urban areas. Chest radiograph showed right lung involvement in 36 [60%] cases. USG guidance was sought in 15 [25%] cases where as CT guidance was taken in 45 [75%]cases [FNAC] was also done in all cases with radiological/USG/CT guidance in all cases. Out of 60 cases, 37 [61.6%] were suffering from primary malignancy of lung [Table-4]. Out of 37 cases of malignancy the squamous cell carcinoma was confirmed in 18 [48.6%] cases. It is concluded from the study that percutaeous aspiration biopsy/cytology of the lung has a definite diagnostic role in lung lesions particularly those situated peripherally. FNAC/FNAB is especially more useful in those lesions not visible through bronchoscopy. FNAC is safe procedure especially when guided by computed tomography [CT] or USG