Assessment of enlarged lymph nodes by aspiration cytology- An experience with 222 cases

Introduction: Lymphadenopathy is the commonest cause of multitude of aetiologies ranging from innocuous reactive lesion to lymph proliferative disorders and metastatic malignancy. FNAC (Fine needle aspiration cytology) is simple, quick, inexpensive method for investigating the cause of lymphadenopathy in developing countries like India. This study is carried out to evaluate the role of FNAC in lymphadenopathies and to assess the various aetiologies of it. Materials and Method: A study was carried out during a period of one year from July 2015 to July 2016, at Government Medical College, Latur. FNAC of 222 patients presenting with lymphadenopathy was done, and were analysed. Results: Maximum patients were diagnosed with Reactive Lymphadenopathy(46.85%), followed by Tuberculous Lymphadenopathy(24.32%), Granulomatous Inflammation(9.91%), Metastatic Lymphadenopathy(9.46%), Suppurative Lymphadenopathy(6.76%) and Primary neoplasm(2.7%). Conclusion: FNAC is most reliable, preliminary screening test to differentiate neoplastic from non-neoplastic cause of lymphadenopathy and therefore preventing unnecessary surgery.