Description
Fluid, NA, Fasting or Non Fasting: As suggested by doctor
Sample Required:
The sample required for Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is tissue or fluid obtained from the body. This procedure can be performed on various parts of the body, such as the thyroid, breast, lymph nodes, or other palpable masses.
Test Time:
The turnaround time for FNAC results can vary depending on the specific tests being conducted and the laboratory’s protocols. Typically, preliminary results may be available within a few days, while more detailed reports may take longer.
Test Normal Range:
FNAC results are not presented in a “normal range” as with some other medical tests. Instead, the report provides information on the presence, type, and characteristics of cells or tissues obtained during the aspiration.
What is the Test?
FNAC, or Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology, is a diagnostic procedure used to obtain tissue or fluid samples from suspicious lumps or masses in the body. These samples are then examined under a microscope to determine if they are cancerous, benign, or if further testing is required.
Test Procedure:
During FNAC, a thin, hollow needle is inserted into the lump or mass to collect a sample of cells or fluid. The procedure is typically guided by touch (blind procedure) or with the assistance of imaging techniques like ultrasound or CT scans (image-guided FNAC). A pathologist examines the sample once it has been taken.
When to Take the Test:
FNAC is recommended when a healthcare provider identifies a lump or mass in a patient that requires further evaluation. It is used to investigate whether the mass is benign or malignant and to aid in diagnosis.
Who Should Take This Test:
Individuals with palpable lumps or masses in various parts of the body, as identified by a healthcare provider, may undergo FNAC to determine the nature of the lump and guide treatment decisions.
Precautions for Exceptional Cases:
FNAC is generally safe and can be performed in exceptional cases like pregnancy. However, the decision to proceed with the procedure during pregnancy will depend on the specific clinical situation, and consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q1: Is FNAC a painful procedure?
A: FNAC is usually well-tolerated and causes minimal discomfort.Before the surgery, local anesthetic may be used to numb the area.
Q2: How accurate is FNAC in diagnosing cancer?
A: FNAC can provide valuable information about the nature of a lump or mass. However, its accuracy depends on factors such as the location of the lump and the experience of the pathologist.
Q3: What happens after FNAC?
A: After FNAC, the collected sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results are then shared with the healthcare provider who will discuss them with the patient and recommend any further steps, if necessary.
Q4: Are there any risks associated with FNAC?
A: FNAC is generally considered safe. Possible risks include bleeding, infection, or discomfort at the site of the procedure. These risks are minimal.
Q5: Can FNAC definitively diagnose cancer?
A: FNAC can strongly suggest cancer, but a definitive diagnosis often requires further testing, such as a biopsy or surgical removal of the mass. The final diagnosis is made based on a combination of clinical, radiological, and pathological findings.
