Pulmonary hamartomas: cytologic appearances of fine needle aspiration biopsy

The cytologic findings in specimens obtained from pulmonary hamartomas by fine needle aspiration biopsy are presented. The following are the main characteristics: 1. In spite of the fact that the lesions are usually hard and cartilaginous, find needle aspiration is possible and can obtain diagnostic material. 2. The material obtained usually has few cells. 3. The cells aspirated include columnar ciliated cells, lymphocytes, histiocytes as well as fragments of cartilage which are quite characteristic. 4. The differential diagnosis is discussed.