FNAC is a simple, safe, and quick outpatient procedure.

A fine needle is inserted into the lump or swelling to aspirate cells, which are then examined under a microscope.

Clinical uses include:

Differentiating benign vs. malignant tumors.

Diagnosing thyroid nodules, breast lumps, lymph node swellings, and salivary gland lesions.

Evaluating soft tissue masses.

Guiding treatment decisions and reducing need for surgical biopsy.

FNAC is often performed under ultrasound or CT guidance for deep‑seated lesions.

Analyte: Cellular material aspirated from lump/mass.

Normal Findings: Benign cells (e.g., reactive lymphoid tissue, benign thyroid nodules).

Abnormal Findings:

Malignant cells: Suggest cancer (e.g., carcinoma, lymphoma).

Inflammatory cells: Indicate infection or abscess.

Atypical cells: May require further biopsy for confirmation.

Clinical Use:

Provides a rapid, cost‑effective diagnostic tool.

Helps avoid unnecessary surgery in benign conditions.

Supports early detection and management of cancers.