Value of direct fine needle aspirative cytology in diagnosing palpable abdominal masses

Article Abstract:

Examination of tissue samples from palpable abdominal masses is important in determining whether malignancy is present. The technique of imaging-guided fine needle aspiration is well established for taking such samples from the liver, pancreas, and kidney. Direct fine-needle aspiration (without X-ray guidance) can also be performed. This article reports the results from 165 patients who underwent direct fine needle aspiration for palpable abdominal masses during a 12-year period. The procedure was not performed for liver masses. An experienced cytologist interpreted the specimens and diagnosed malignancy, when present. Samples that were purulent (containing pus), contained atypical-reactive cells, or were nonmalignant were categorized as benign; samples that were suggestive of malignancy or were definitely malignant were considered malignant. One hundred thirty of the patients had malignant abdominal masses and 35 had benign masses, as verified by results from other histologic methods and from the patient's clinical course. Analysis of the fine-needle aspirate failed to detect malignancy in 12 cases. Malignancy was correctly diagnosed in 113 cases and suspected malignancy, in 5 cases. All 35 patients with benign masses were correctly diagnosed as nonmalignant by fine-needle aspiration. The method had a sensitivity (correct identification of malignancy when it is really present) of 90.8 percent; a specificity (correct identification of the absence of malignancy when it is really absent) of 100 percent; a positive predictive value (extent to which a positive biopsy result predicts the presence of malignancy) of 100 percent; and a negative predictive value (extent to which a negative biopsy result predicts the absence of malignancy) of 74.5 percent. The overall diagnostic accuracy of direct fine needle aspiration in this study was 92.7 percent. Two major nonfatal complications occurred. The method is simple, safe, and accurate for diagnosing palpable abdominal masses in selected patients. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Evaluation, Diagnosis, Tumors, Biopsy, Needle, Needle biopsy

---

Virginia samplers

Article Abstract:

Authentic Virginia samplers are on display at Colonial Williamsburg as part of the exhibition 'Virginia Samplers: Young Ladies and Their Needle Wisdom.' The samplers and related objects are available for public viewing through Sep 7, 1998, at the DeWitt Wallace Gallery.

Exhibitions, Needlework, Samplers

---

Supplementary reports

Article Abstract:

Financial reports of miscellaneous firms are provided.

Security and Commodity Services, Securities & Commodities Services, Securities, Commodity Contracts, and Other Financial Investments and Related Activities, Reports, Securities industry

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Jigsaw puzzles. Amazon skywatch
• Abstracts: Tigerman's tale. Kiwi Fence Systems Inc
• Abstracts: Interior storm sashes. WSC joint statement

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.