Treatment

Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB)

Overview

Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) is a minimally invasive procedure used to collect cells or fluid from a lump or mass in the body. A thin hollow needle is inserted into the affected area to extract a sample for examination under a microscope. FNAB is commonly used for thyroid nodules, breast lumps, lymph nodes, and other abnormal growths. This test helps doctors determine whether the mass is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Why is Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) Required?

It is mainly used to:

• Diagnose thyroid nodules (FNA thyroid) and other glandular abnormalities.
• Check for cancerous cells in lymph nodes or suspicious lumps.
• Examine fluid filled cysts to confirm if they are benign or require further treatment.
• Assist in detecting conditions like angiosarcoma fine needle aspiration and leiomyoma fine needle aspiration.
• Identify aprocrine cells fine needle aspiration abnormalities.

Key Advantages of Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB)

• Minimally invasive: No need for large incisions or surgery.
• Quick procedure: Takes only a few minutes.
• Less pain & discomfort: A fine needle aspiration cytology technique reduces trauma.
• Fast results: Often available within a few days.
• Safe & reliable: Low risk of complications compared to a core biopsy.

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Taking Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) Treatment?

• Inform your doctor about medications, allergies or bleeding disorders.
• You do not need anesthesia for most FNA needle biopsy procedures.
• If your biopsy involves deeper tissues, imaging (like ultrasound or CT scan) may be used.
• Avoid blood thinners before the test (as advised by your doctor).

How is Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) Performed?

• The doctor cleans the skin over the lump or swelling.
• A thin needle is inserted into the area to extract a small sample of cells or fluid.
• The sample is sent for fine needle aspiration cytology (FNA cytology) to examine under a microscope.
• A bandage is placed over the biopsy site and you can return to normal activities.

What You Can Expect?

1. Before the procedure:

You may undergo imaging tests to guide the needle.

2. During the procedure:

A slight pinching or mild discomfort is common but pain is minimal.

3. After the procedure:

Mild soreness at the biopsy site may occur but it resolves quickly.

Risk and Potential Complications

FNAB is a safe procedure but rare complications may include:

• Minor bruising or swelling at the biopsy site.
• Infection though very rare.
• Bleeding especially in people taking blood thinners.

Results/Outcomes

• If no cancer cells are found the lump is benign and no further treatment may be needed.
• If the biopsy indicates suspicious or malignant cells further tests or treatments will be recommended.
• Inconclusive results may require repeat FNA or a core biopsy for a more detailed analysis.