Cytopathological correlation of cell block in ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration cytology

Abstract

Introduction: Despite many advantages, at times FNA does not yield enough information for precise diagnosis, the material remaining in the hub or extra material can be used in Cell Block preparation. Present study was done to assess utility of USG guided FNAC with CB preparation in increasing sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy of deep-seated lesions. Methodology: One-year cross sectional study carried out in a tertiary hospital, on 50 patients referred for USG guided FNAC of deep-seated lesions after considering inclusion/exclusion criteria. Consent and detailed clinical history were taken. After making conventional FNAC smears, Fixed sedimentation method was used for cell block preparation by flushing residual material in needle hub and syringe in 10% buffered formalin. Centrifugation at 3000 rpm was done for 10 minutes to form pellets, supernatant was decanted, deposit was wrapped in filter paper and processed as regular surgical tissue. FNAC smears and Cell block sections were examined and results were correlated with histopathology.Results: Of the 50 cases, Sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of deep-seated lesions considering histopathology as gold standard was 86.96%, 100%, 88.0% for FNAC and 95.65%, 100%, 96.0% for Cell block and 97.83%, 100%, 98.0% for FNAC+ CB combined respectively.Conclusion: Cell blocks as an adjuvant to FNAC smears is highly effective technique in cytology for definitive diagnosis.