Role of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology in Assessment of Head and Neck Lesions - A Study at a District Hospital

Abstract

Background: Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a rapid, economical and less invasive method used for diagnosis in case of head and neck lesions which are commonly seen in general practice. Aim: The present study was designed to find out the spectrum of head and neck masses, and to assess advantage of using FNAC in the diagnosis of palpable head and neck masses. Material And Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted over a period of 3 years from May 2019 to May 2022 in the department of pathology at district hospital JLNM. FNAC was performed on head and neck swellings and were evaluated for cytomorphology. Results: A total of 583 cases were studied. Majority of the patients belonged to the age group of 30 to 50 years. Out of 583 cases, 299 were males and 284 were females. Maximum cases were from lymph nodes (241) accounting for 41.3% of total cases. 35.5% (207 cases) were from skin and soft tissue swellings. 17.4% (102 cases) were of thyroid, and 5.6% from salivary gland (33 cases). Conclusions: FNAC is a reliable procedure for screening and diagnosing palpable head and neck lesions. It is extremely sensitive, specific and helps as an adjunct to histopathology. FNAC helps to decide as to whether to resect a benign tumour or to plan extensive surgeries and helps in guiding the therapeutic management by avoiding unnecessary surgeries and expenses. Keywords: Head & Neck, Lymphadenopathy, FNAC.