Prognostic value of cytologic peritoneal washings

The following points summarize the important diagnostic and prognostic features of peritoneal cytology. Malignant cells in peritoneal fluid are most often indicative of secondary malignancies with short periods of patient survival except in some early-stage tumors of the female genital tract. Atypical reactive mesothelial cells can simulate malignant cells. Experienced cytologic evaluation is important. Peritoneal cytology is an integral part of the initial staging and follow-up of ovarian cancer. Many researchers feel that peritoneal cytology is important for prognosis in endometrial cancer, and cytologic evaluation is at present a part of some study protocols. There is a low yield of positive peritoneal cytologic findings in patients with early-stage cervical cancer, and cytologic assessment probably plays a small role when other poor prognostic factors are present. Thorough sampling of the peritoneal cavity and careful cytologic preparation are important for optimal diagnosis.