CYTOLOGY FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION; FNAC

What this test checks

Uses a thin needle to collect a small sample of cells from a lump or swelling. A specialist examines these cells under a microscope to determine if they are cancerous, benign, or infected.

Why do people get this test?

FNAC is a quick, minimally invasive way to find out if a lump is harmless or needs further treatment. It avoids the need for open surgery in many cases and gives results faster than a tissue biopsy.

When you should consider this test

• When you have a lump in the neck, breast, thyroid, or another accessible area
• When your doctor needs to know if a growth is cancerous before planning treatment
• When investigating swollen lymph nodes or glandular masses

How to prepare

No fasting needed. The procedure is done at the clinic — a thin needle is inserted briefly into the lump to collect cells. Mild discomfort is normal.