APPLICATION OF ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND GUIDED FNAC(EUS-FNAC) IN DIAGNOSING PANCREATIC MASS LESIONS

Introduction: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNAC) has become an important modality for identification of pancreatic masses. It is a minimally invasive procedure that provides excellent cell yield even in deep seated lesions. The preoperative diagnosis of pancreatic mass by EUS-FNAC can help the surgeons in early detection and confirmation of neoplasm as pancreatic mass lesions are highly concerning for pancreatic carcinoma. This study was aimed at application of EUS-FNAC in diagnosing pancreatic mass lesions. Methods: A study was conducted for 20 cases who underwent EUS guided FNAC for pancreatic mass lesions. EUS-FNAC was performed by using a curvilinear array echo endoscope. The technique was carried out by a skilled endoscopist, and the glass slides were used to make smears from fluid that was aspirated containing corpuscular fractions. The slides were air dried before being examined cytopathologically. Results: Out of 20 cases,10 were of pancreatic Ductal adenocarcinoma, 3 of Neuroendocrine tumor of pancreas, 2 of Acinar cell carcinoma, 1 of Solid pseudopapillary tumor, 2 of Serous cystadenoma and 2 of Mucinous cystadenoma. This was confirmed later, on further Immunocytochemical stains. Conclusions:Out of 20 cases, 16 were malignant and 4 were benign. EUS-FNAC can help in early diagnosis and can improve the patient outcome. It is safe, cost-effective and reliable. It not only gives precise cytological diagnosis, but it also allows for the exact site of tiny lesions.