Role of Computed Tomography-guided Fine-needle Aspiration Cytology/Biopsy in Management of Lung Lesions: Experience of a Tertiary Care Oncology Hospital

ABSTRACT

Background: Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and biopsy are routinely used methods for the diagnosis of lung lesions. In sampling of lung lesions, computed tomography (CT) is used to provide direction to the needle. The procedure is related with few complications. Methods: In this retrospective study, records of 247 patients who underwent CT-guided FNAC and/or biopsy at our tertiary care oncology-specific hospital during a calendar year (2015) were analyzed. The pretest coagulation profiles, predisposing emphysematous conditions on CT, and patient demographics were recorded. Lesion demographics included site, size, and depth. Postprocedure complications and diagnosis on cytology, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were tabulated. Results: Out of 247 patients, 160 (64.8%) were males. Most patients belonged to 51� years age group. Adenocarcinoma was the most common primary tumor of lung whereas carcinoma breast was the most common secondary diagnosed. Thirty (12.1%) patients developed complications after the procedure, with 29 of these having pneumothorax. Conclusions: Computed tomography-guided FNAC and/or biopsy is a safe and reliable tool to diagnose lung lesions.