ABSTRACT
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.
Subject(s)
Biopsy, Needle , Lung Neoplasms/diagnosis , Lymph Nodes/pathology , Cytodiagnosis , Female , Humans , Lymphatic Metastasis , Male , PalpationABSTRACT
Fine needle aspiration cytology is now a recognised and well established technique. The procedure is simple and relatively non-invasive. It is cost-effective, and may significantly reduce diagnostic delay. It is particularly indicated in the diagnosis of malignant neoplasia, both primary and metastatic. It is also suitable for identification and culture of infective agents. In addition, certain other benign lesions and non-neoplastic conditions may be recognised. The contraindications and complications are few. The limitations of the procedure are related to the nature, site and size of the lesion. The accuracy of the procedure is also influenced by the adequacy of the aspirator's technique as well as the experience and skill of the pathologist.
Subject(s)
Biopsy, Needle/methods , Cytodiagnosis/methods , Neoplasms/pathology , Biopsy, Needle/adverse effects , Female , Humans , Immunohistochemistry , Male , Microscopy, Electron , Predictive Value of TestsABSTRACT
A large parathyroid adenoma was found in a patient who presented with a mass in the neck with, however, no overt evidence of hyperparathyroidism. The morphological features of this tumour are described.
