Cytopathological aspects of EUS-FNA

Abstract

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a procedure wherein cells are aspirated from a lesion/tumor using a needle and syringe by applying negative pressure [1]. The aspirated material contains cells, either isolated or in clusters. Cell morphology, nuclear characteristics and cytological features of malignancy can be studied in these smears. The B in FNAB stands for biopsy; here, a core of tissue is examined for architectural characteristics or patterns. Pathological diagnosis of malignancy is made by using a combination of cytological and architectural disturbances. Despite advances in imaging modalities, histopathology and cytology still remain the gold standard for diagnostic confirmation of a disease.