FINE-NEEDLE ASPIRATION CYTOLOGY: "Hot" FNA Service - CPA Standard E1.4
Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is a biopsy technique which employs a fine needle (21 gauge or finer) to obtain cells and small tissue fragments from lesions for diagnosis. Procurement and interpretation of FNA specimens requires specialised training in the pathology subspecialty of cytopathology.
The Department of Cytopathology at IHS operates an ad hoc FNA Clinic for the evaluation of superficial, palpable lesions. Lesions commonly aspirated in our clinic include enlarged lymph nodes (cervical, supraclavicular, axillary, inguinal), palpable thyroid nodules, palpable breast masses, and salivary gland masses. Virtually any subcutaneous, palpable, discrete nodule is suitable for FNA analysis.
FNA is the procedure of choice for the initial evaluation of thyroid nodules. It is useful in the evaluation of persistently enlarged lymph nodes. FNA provides rapid information about the nature of worrisome breast masses.
We are now able to offer a gold standard level of service in this developing area. Our unrivalled "hot" FNA service provides our clients and patients with a same-day consultation with a consultant cytopathologist who is accompanied by a cytotechnologist to ensure an adequate sample is obtained and sufficient material is taken for ancillary testing.
Because a portion of the FNA specimen is analysed at the time of the aspiration, a preliminary impression can usually be provided to both the patient and the referring physician. A final diagnosis is usually available within 24 hours. If necessary an ultrasound examination can be performed at the same consultation to provide additional clinically useful information.
The full FNA service from IHS also includes flow cytometry and immunocytchemistry as appropriate. For more details regarding FNA, to request a "hot" FNA, or to refer a patient to the IHS Department of Cytopathology FNA Clinic, please contact us:
Tel: 020 7299 4494
Email: enquires@unilabs.com
