Pitfalls in EUS FNA

Although endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is a safe and accurate procedure, the diagnostic yield varies. Factors contributing to the diagnostic accuracy of EUS FNA include endosonographer and cytopathologist experience, EUS image recognition, accurate FNA targeting of the lesion, proper specimen collection and handling, use of ancillary techniques, and accurate cytologic interpretation. Errors in performance or judgment made before, during, or after the procedure may affect the results of the EUS FNA. The authors discuss the potential pitfalls of EUS FNA and methods to avoid their occurrence to optimize the diagnostic yield, efficiency, and safety of the procedure.