When a lump or a bump is found in the superficial areas of the body like the breast and neck, then a test known as Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is conducted. A lump may be found during the doctor’s examination or with the help of imaging tests such as CT scan, mammogram and ultrasound. Doctors usually prescribe FNAC to conduct tests on thyroid, salivary glands, cysts (fluid-filled lumps), nodules or masses (solid lumps), and enlarged lymph nodes.
What does FNAC procedure involve?
The FNAC procedure includes insertion of a small hypodermic needle, which is usually the size of an office pin, which may have a syringe attached to it. When the syringe is used, suction is put in to obtain more material. Furthermore, the needle is injected and drawn in and out for about five seconds and then is finally taken out. The material is then marked out on a glass slide and the pathologist stains it under a microscope to draw out a conclusion.
What to expect before FNAC?
No standard preparation has been defined before undergoing the FNAC test. However, one may be asked to make some changes in medicines as well as diet. Few days before the test, one should avoid the intake of aspirin or other blood thinners. Also, do not eat or drink anything before a few hours of the procedure. Don’t forget to follow whatever your physician and pathologist suggest you to.
What to expect during FNAC?
Mostly the fine needle aspiration is an outpatient procedure. Those who go for this diagnostic service have to go through the following steps:
>The entire process takes about 10 minutes
>The skin of the area is firstly cleaned with an antiseptic solution and will then be covered with towel or a sterile drape.
>The area is then injected with a numbing medication
>To locate the right area for fine needle aspiration, ultrasound is conducted
>The vacuum inside the syringe forces the body fluid into the syringe>The entire process takes about 10 minutes
What to expect after FNAC?
As sedatives are given during the fine needle aspiration procedure, one might feel dizzy and unable to work for the day. Just after the process, you may feel swelling, soreness or pain in body. Some people are provided with pain medicines in case of higher discomfort.
Is the procedure safe?
It has been proven by doctors that the FNAC procedure is safe. Besides that it holds numerous benefits while delivering quick and accurate results. No scars are left during the procedure and the patient can easily go home without getting hospitalised. Just remember to trust only recognised pathology labs, like Scientific Pathology that performs FNAC tests in Agra with the help of latest techniques to deliver 100% accurate results.
