Lymph node fine needle cytology in the diagnosis of infectious diseases and ancillary techniques

Fine needle cytology (FNC) is represents a valid tool in the diagnosis of lymphadenopathies. When rapid on site evaluation (ROSE) is performed the method overcomes the problems related to the adequacy and allows to store residual material for ancillary techniques future. Cytological data, obtained by FNC may be supported and integrated by ancillary techniques namely molecular biology. The detection of specific microorganisms based on nucleic-acid technologies is the fundamental principle of molecular techniques, allowing a rapid diagnosis, an immediate treatment with minimal invasion and costs for the patient. Molecular procedures are also characterized by high levels of specificity and sensitivity. In conclusion, morphological diagnosis of infectious diseases performed on FNC samples can be enhanced by molecular analysis data.