Cytogenetics of fine needle aspiration biopsies of sarcomas

Chromosomal analysis has become an adjunct in the classification of soft tissue and bone sarcomas and may provide indications of tumor progression. Since it is not always possible or desirable to obtain fresh tumor tissue, the current study analyzed the feasibility to obtain karyotypes from fine needle aspiration biopsies (FNABs) and compared those with karyotypes obtained after short term tissue culture of the corresponding surgical specimens. In 6 of 12 cases an interpretable abnormal karyotype was obtained from the FNABs. These findings demonstrate that it is indeed feasible to obtain karyotypes of primary, metastatic or recurrent sarcomas after a minor procedure such as a FNAB.