Publication:

Cytomorphological spectrum and tissue reaction patterns in parasitic infections

Background Parasitic infections are prevalent in endemic regions and often present as subcutaneous swellings. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) provides a rapid and minimally invasive diagnostic option. Objective was to evaluate the cytomorphological features and tissue reaction patterns in parasitic lesions diagnosed by FNAC.

Methods An ambispective study of 40 FNAC-confirmed parasitic infection cases conducted over two years. Cytological smears stained with May-Grünwald-Giemsa were evaluated for parasitic elements and background response.

Results Among 40 cases, cysticercosis (n=30) was most common, followed by hydatid cyst (n=6), filariasis (n=3), and leishmaniasis (n=1). Cysticercosis cases showed bladder wall fragments (83.3%), calcareous spherules (16.7%), and suppurative inflammation (76.7%). Hydatid cysts revealed scolices/hooklets and lamellated membranes; filariasis showed microfilariae and embryonated eggs with inflammatory backgrounds. Leishmaniasis demonstrated amastigotes in a subacute inflammatory background.

Conclusions FNAC remains a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying parasitic lesions based on cytological hallmarks and associated tissue responses.