Computed tomography guided fine needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of thoracic lesions

Computed tomography (CT) allows the performance of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in situations in which ultrasound or conventional x-rays do not correctly visualise the lesion or the needle tract. Over an 18-month period 184 patients underwent CT-guided FNAC of thoracic lesions. Of these 140 patients presented with pulmonary parenchymal lesions, 18 with mediastinal lesions, 14 with pleural lesions and 12 with hilar lymphadenopathy. A categorical diagnosis was possible in 180 (98%) cases. In majority of the cases only one or two passes were required. Two cases developed pneumothorax and required chest drainage. It can be concluded from the present observations that FNAC under CT control is a useful and accurate diagnostic technique.