Fine needle aspiration biopsy of lymph nodes and subcutaneous masses

The results of fine needle aspiration biopsy of lymph nodes and subcutaneous masses in 169 patients and the technique used are discussed. Of the 169 cases 76 were classified as cytologically malignant, 52 as benign/inflammatory and 49 as inadequate. Neck masses were most commonly sampled. The overall diagnostic accuracy achieved was 75%. No false positive and 2 false negative cases were seen. The advantages and limitations of the procedure are discussed as well as some of the possible sources of error.