Aspiration cytology (thyroid biopsy)

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAB) is a minimally invasive procedure used primarily in tumor diagnostics. The technique was invented in Sweden in the 1950s and began to spread in Hungary in the 1970s.

A sample can be taken from any palpable lesion or tumor that can be localized by ultrasound. The most commonly examined organs are the following: thyroid gland, breast, lymph nodes, palpable lesions in the skin.

Skin surface tumors, e.g. tumors originating from moles, are not examined in this way. During ultrasound-guided sampling, two specialists, a radiologist and a cytopathologist, perform the sampling together, which increases the probability of finding a positive result. The procedure is quick, simple and uncomplicated, and does not require any preparation. Sometimes we cause minor bleeding, this is like after taking blood from the elbow vein, so in addition to taking Syncumar, we usually ask that the patient skip it for the day, but all other medications can be taken before the examination. You can also eat and drink before the examination.

During the appointment, we question the patient and read their previous findings. After that, the radiologist localizes the lesion with ultrasound, followed by a thin needle puncture, which only lasts a few seconds. The sampling is repeated twice, from two directions. A smear is made from the obtained cells (similar to gynecological sampling), which, after fixation and staining, is examined under a microscope by the cytopathologist. The cytopathologist examines the cells, their shape, the nucleus: cytoplasm ratio, the number of dividing cells, and receives his opinion and diagnosis in a report, either from the treating physician, by email, or in person (whichever method of receipt you choose). The report includes a microscopic description, cytological diagnosis/evaluation (C1 to C5), and a written opinion. Due to the medical terminology, we ask that even if the patient receives the results in person, they consult their doctor/family doctor.

The price of the examination may depend on the number of samples required. Detailed information will be provided by the doctor performing the examination.