Fine needle aspiration biopsy of osteolytic metastatic lesions

The use of fine needle aspiration biopsy of solitary osteolytic-type bone metastases in 24 patients is described. A positive diagnosis of malignancy was obtained in 21 patients, as the softness of the osteolytic lesion yielded enough cell material for cytologic examination. No complications were encountered. The procedure can be performed with ease, even on an outpatient basis, without discomfort to the patient.