Diagnostic value of fine needle aspiration cytology [FNAc]: experience of 904 cases with a comparative histopathological study

Fine needle aspiration is indicated in the exploration of superficial and deep masses. The accuracy of this procedure differs in various studies, and according to the organ explored. To define the accuracy of this procedure in my experience. Patients: This study is composed of 904 cases of fine needle aspiration, used in masses of various organs and sites: neck, intra-cranial, hepatic, pulmonary, soft tissue, and breast masses. The cytological results are compared with the histopathological results of biopsies or surgical specimens of the same studied masses. The cytological results are also compared with clinical, radiological, and bio- logical data. Malignancies constituted 35% of this study. The sensitivity reached 92.3%, while the specificity was 98.9%. The diagnosis was mistaken in 1% of specimens, while the percentage of suspected malignancies was 6.6%. The study shows the indications for FNA, the causes of positive and negative findings, and the best way to achieve the highest accuracy. FNA is a useful diagnostic procedure because it permits the screening of large numbers of abnormal masses quickly and with a minimum of trauma and cost. In some cases, FNA may replace histopathological study. This procedure requires good experience and techniques