Publication:

Fine needle aspiration cytology- an accurate method for diagnosis of cutaneous and subcutaneous metastases

Background Cutaneous metastases from carcinoma are relatively uncommon, usually representing late events in the course of internal malignancies and indicate a dismal outcome of patients. Aim of the study was undertaken to evaluate the role of FNAC as a diagnostic tool for diagnosis of cutaneous metastases of various internal malignancies as it is of great value in the early diagnosis.

Methods Study of cutaneous metastases was undertaken for the period from April 2013 to July 2017. Out of over 12000 cytology cases, 25 cases were diagnosed as cutaneous metastases. Fine needle aspiration was done using 22-gauge needle without anaesthesia and smears were air dried and stained with MGG.

Results Out of 25 patients diagnosed with cutaneous metastases on cytology, 11 were males and 14 females with age ranging from 20-75 years. Chest wall was the most common site of metastases. Adenocarcinoma and Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma were the most common cytomorphological types observed.

Conclusions FNAC is minimally invasive, safe, rapid and reliable method for the diagnosis of cutaneous metastases.