FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology)

FNAC Test: quick answers

FNAC Test full form

Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology

FNAC Test price

₹1,099

Done for

A thyroid nodule or neck swelling; An enlarged lymph node; A breast lump

Fasting

Not required

Report

2–5 days

What is the FNAC Test?

FNAC stands for fine needle aspiration cytology. A thin needle is passed into a lump, such as a thyroid nodule, lymph node or breast lump, and a few cells are drawn out and examined under the microscope. It takes a few minutes and usually needs no anaesthetic.

What your FNAC Test result means

Benign

No cancer cells seen; for example a colloid nodule, reactive lymph node or fibroadenoma. Follow-up depends on the lump.

Suspicious or indeterminate

Cells that cannot be called benign or malignant with confidence. A repeat FNAC, a biopsy or surgery may be advised.

Malignant

Cancer cells seen. A biopsy or surgery usually follows to confirm and plan treatment.

Non-diagnostic

Too few cells were obtained; the FNAC is usually repeated, often under ultrasound guidance.

One result is not a diagnosis. A doctor reads it with your symptoms, history, medicines and other tests.

Why is the FNAC Test done?

• A thyroid nodule or neck swelling
• An enlarged lymph node
• A breast lump
• Lumps in the skin, salivary glands or soft tissue
• Suspected TB of a lymph node or a cyst

What does the FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) measure?

1 parameter. Expand a group to see the measurements, units and available method details.

The reference interval printed on your actual laboratory report governs interpretation. Intervals can vary by laboratory, method, age, sex and pregnancy. Methods can also vary by processing laboratory.

FNAC Test: sample & preparation

Sample: Confirm with the laboratory. Fasting: Not required.

• This is a needle-aspiration sample taken by your doctor. Label the slides or vial with the site and clinical details and send them to the laboratory promptly.

Frequently asked questions