Aspiration biopsy of palpable lymph nodes and the diagnosis of lung carcinoma.

Over a six-year period at this institution aspiration biopsy of palpable lymph nodes has been used in the diagnosis and follow-up of 40 primary lung cancers. Small cell carcinoma was the commonest cell type. In the majority of the patients this was the initial diagnosis of lung cancer, however, there were patients with recurrence after chemotherapy and after surgical management. Diagnosis and classification of tumour using this simple, rapid and safe procedure negates the need for more invasive and costly investigations.

Multifocal osteomyelitis caused by Mycobacterium chelonei. A therapeutic dilemma.

An elderly man developed chronic osteomyelitis in the right tibia and both feet after a penetrating injury to the right knee. Mycobacterium chelonei, a species closely related to M. fortuitum, was cultured from all sites. The selection of antibiotic therapy was difficult. The need for prolonged treatment and possible surgical intervention is highlighted.