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The FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) test is used to examine lumps or swellings and detect conditions like infections, inflammation, or cancer. It is a quick and minimally invasive procedure, with costs depending on the lab and location. Knowing the normal range helps doctors make accurate diagnoses. The test is generally safe, with only minor risks such as slight pain, bruising, or discomfort at the needle site.
What is the FNAC Test?
Fine needle aspiration cytology, or FNAC, is a diagnostic procedure used to examine interior lesions or cancers that can be felt or seen during a scan. During this technique, a needle is inserted into the bodily component being investigated, and fluid is collected from the area. Treatments of the breasts, liver, kidneys, lungs, prostate, pancreas, lymph nodes, and other organs are prevalent. This procedure is used to detect cancer in many parts of the body. It is also used to detect cysts in the body.
Why is the FNAC Test Done?
The FNAC test is performed for various reasons, including:
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Get Second OpinionWhen is the FNAC Test Needed?
The FNAC test (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) is done when a doctor wants to check a lump or swelling in the body. It helps find out if the lump is harmless (benign) or serious (possibly cancerous). During the test, a thin needle is used to take a small sample from the lump, which is then looked at under a microscope. You might need an FNAC test in the following cases:
- FNAC test for breast: If you have a lump in your breast, the test helps find out if it's a cyst, a benign growth, or something more serious like breast cancer.
- FNAC test for neck: If there's swelling or lump in your neck, this test helps check if it’s from an infection, a thyroid problem, or something more serious like cancer.
- Lumps in the armpit or groin: To find out if the swelling is due to infection or cancer in the lymph nodes.
- Swelling in salivary glands or soft tissues: To see if the cause is a tumor, infection, or other condition.
- Any unexplained swelling: Anywhere in the body, when it’s not clear what’s causing it.
The FNAC test is quick, safe, and doesn't usually hurt much. It's often one of the first steps doctors take to better understand a lump.
Who Should Take the FNAC Test?
The FNAC test (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) is useful for anyone who has a lump or swelling that needs to be checked. It helps doctors find out if the lump is harmless or something more serious like cancer. Here are some people who may need the test:
- Women with breast lumps: If a woman feels a new lump in her breast, especially if it is hard or growing, a doctor may suggest an FNAC test for breast. This is important for women of all ages, especially those over 30.
- People with neck lumps: A person with a lump or swelling in the neck may need an FNAC test for neck. This could be due to swollen lymph nodes, thyroid problems, or infections.
- Men with unusual lumps: Men can also get lumps in the breast or neck. An FNAC test for cancer may be done to check for rare but serious problems.
- Anyone with a lump that doesn’t go away: If you have a lump that stays, gets bigger, or feels painful, your doctor might suggest an FNAC test to find out what’s causing it.
- Older adults: People over 40 are at a higher risk for certain health problems, including cancer, so FNAC is often used to check any suspicious swelling.
- People with health conditions: If you already have thyroid disease, a past cancer diagnosis, or other medical issues, FNAC can help check any new or changing lumps.
If you or someone you know needs this test, you can ask your doctor about getting an FNAC test near you. It’s a quick, safe, and simple way to learn more about a lump or swelling.
How Should I Prepare for the FNAC Test?
The FNAC test requires no special preparation. However, depending on the location and type of sample being checked, the doctor may provide you with some special instructions. Here are some general suggestions to help you prepare for the test:
- Inform the doctor about any medications or supplements you use. Certain drugs, such as blood thinners, may need to be discontinued temporarily before the test.
- Put on something comfortable. Depending on the place of the sample collection, you may need to undress partially or entirely.
- Tell the doctor if you have any bleeding disorders or are taking medications that could interfere with blood clotting.
- Arrive sooner to allow for any required papers or registration.
- Before the procedure, discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your doctor.
To ensure that the test is accurate and safe, it is critical that you follow any specific directions the doctor gives you.
What Type of Sample is Collected for the FNAC Test and How?
The FNAC test (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) is a quick and simple way to check the cause of a lump or swelling. It does not require blood, urine, or other common test samples. Instead, it uses a small amount of cells or fluid taken directly from the lump.
How is the sample collected?
A doctor gently inserts a thin, hollow needle into the lump. They then use a syringe to collect a small sample of tissue or fluid. This is the main step in the FNAC test procedure, and it usually takes only a few minutes. Most people feel only a quick pinch, similar to a regular injection.
Where is the sample taken from?
The sample can be collected from many areas, such as:
- Lumps in the breast
- Swellings in the neck
- Thyroid nodules
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Any other unexplained lump or swelling
What happens after the test?
After the sample is collected, it is placed on a glass slide and studied under a microscope by a specialist. The findings are shared in the FNAC test report, which helps the doctor know if the lump is benign (not cancer), malignant (cancer), or needs more testing.
Are There Other Ways to Collect the Sample for the FNAC Test?
Yes, in some cases, doctors may use different methods or tools to collect the sample for the FNAC test:
Ultrasound-guided FNAC
- If the lump is deep inside the body or hard to feel (like in the thyroid or abdomen), doctors may use an ultrasound machine to guide the needle to the exact spot.
- This makes the FNAC test procedure more accurate and safer.
CT-guided FNAC
- For lumps inside the chest or deep organs, a CT scan may be used to help guide the needle during the test.
FNAC in children or babies
- For very young children or babies, doctors may use smaller, finer needles.
- If the child is too uncomfortable or scared, mild sedation may be used to help keep them calm and still during the test.
Special tools in hard-to-reach areas
- In rare cases, if the lump is in a tricky area (like inside the mouth, throat, or near bones), doctors might use longer needles or flexible tools to safely collect the sample.
- Swabs or catheters are generally not used for FNAC, because this test needs tissue or cell samples—not surface samples like those collected for infections.
How is the FNAC Test Performed?
Positioning
You will be in the best place to allow access to the area that is being tested. If the lump or swelling is located in a body area, you will be asked to lie down or sit comfortably.
Cleaning the Area
The area where the biopsy will be done is cleaned with an antiseptic solution to reduce the chance of infection.
Needle Insertion
A narrow, flexible needle is passed into the lump or area of interest, which might be a quick pinch to the face. Since the treatment is relatively fast and causes minor discomfort, an anaesthetic is usually not necessary.
Sample Collection
Using a needle, the healthcare provider removes some cells or fluid from the lump. The process can be repeated until sufficient samples are recorded. This is mainly the case when the area is wide or again if multiple recordings are needed for a single sample.
Post-Procedure Care
The needle will then be withdrawn, and pressure will be applied to the sight to reduce bleeding. You may then get a small bandage for the spot.
Recovery
FNAC is a fast outpatient procedure, and after it, you can go back to your routine immediately. You may experience mild tenderness or bruising at the site, which should go down within a day or two.
Sample Analysis
This sample is then sent to a lab and examined under the microscope for any abnormal cells or diseases.
Results
Your doctor will present the results to you in a matter of days, and further testing or treatment may be recommended.
Fine needle aspiration cytopathology, FNAC is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure for lumps or swellings at various regions of the human body, such as the thyroid, breast, lymph nodes or other soft tissue. This route is safe, rapid, and relatively painless for getting diagnostic information.
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How Long Does the FNAC Test Take?
The FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) test usually takes about 10 to 30 minutes for sample collection, depending on the location and complexity. Results are typically available within 1 to 3 days, though this can vary based on the lab and whether special analysis is needed.
When Will I Get My FNAC Test Results?
You can typically expect your FNAC test results within 12 to 24 hours, depending on the lab’s processing time. The report will be shared with you either through WhatsApp or as a printed copy. After you receive it, our doctor will review the results with you and advise on any necessary next steps.
How Do I Understand My FNAC Test Results?
FNAC test normal reports provide information on the cells collected from the suspicious tumor or lump. The interpretation of the results will be influenced by the type of mass or lump analyzed and the potential underlying ailment. Following are some cases of FNAC test results and associated interpretations:
- Benign
- Malignant
- Inconclusive
- Atypical
Discussing the FNAC test results with the doctor, who may give you a more detailed explanation based on the specific condition, is important. If necessary, the results will help guide the following steps in diagnosis and therapy.
What Should I Do After Getting My FNAC Test Results?
After you get your FNAC test results, talk to your doctor about what they mean. If everything looks normal, you might not need to do anything else. If the test shows signs of infection, swelling, or something unusual like cancer cells, your doctor may suggest more tests or start treatment. It's important to follow up so you know what to do next.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of the FNAC Test?
The FNAC test is generally very safe and widely used by doctors to check lumps or swellings. It is a quick, low-risk procedure and does not require surgery.
Common and Minor Side Effects
- You may feel a small pinch or sting when the needle is inserted.
- After the test, there might be a little bruising or tenderness where the needle went in.
- A small lump may form for a short time at the site, but it usually goes away on its own.
Rare Risks
- In very rare cases, there may be a mild infection at the needle site.
- A small amount of bleeding can occur, especially if the test was done in a sensitive area.
- For people with bleeding disorders or on blood thinners, extra care may be needed.
Is it Safe?
Yes, the FNAC test procedure is considered very safe for most people, including children and older adults. There’s no need for stitches, no hospital stay, and you can return to normal activities soon after the test.
Is the FNAC Test Painful?
The FNAC method is often well tolerated, with most patients experiencing mild to no discomfort throughout the procedure. Moreover, you may experience some discomfort as the needle is inserted. There were no patients who were in serious pain. A local anesthetic is also administered prior to the procedure when necessary.
What are the Factors Affecting FNAC Test Cost?
The cost of an FNAC test can vary based on several factors. These include the type of lab (private or government), where the lab is located (city or town), the method used for the test (with or without imaging guidance), and any extra services like doctor consultation or sample analysis by a specialist. All these can affect the final price.
How Much Does the FNAC Test Cost in India?
The cost of FNAC is between Rs.500 and Rs.3000 usually in India, depending on the testing center, location, and site biopsy. So, it is better to contact the concerned hospital or diagnostic center where you are going to get this test done for accurate pricing.
FNAC Test Price in Different Cities Across India
| City | Price |
| Hyderabad | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Vizag | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Nashik | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Chh. Sambhaji Nagar | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Nellore | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Chandanagar | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Srikakulam | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Sangamner | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Kurnool | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Kakinada | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Karimnagar | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Sangareddy | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Nizamabad | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Navi-Mumbai | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Vizianagaram | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Bengaluru | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
| Warangal | Rs. 500 to Rs. 3000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a low-cost, quick, and risk-free alternative to histopathology for tuberculosis diagnosis. It is a patient-friendly method for assessing cytomorphological properties.
A positive FNAC test may not always mean you have cancer. The doctor may request additional tests for a final diagnosis based on the medical history, complaint, signs & symptoms, and clinical examination.
FNAC of lymph nodes is a highly helpful and precise approach for diagnosing lymph node malignancies. It may be the principal method for detecting primary cancers and, in certain cases, the only method for detecting metastatic tumors in lymph nodes.
A biopsy is mainly a surgical technique that removes a portion of body tissue to be examined in the laboratory for abnormalities. FNAC is a basic type of biopsy that is less traumatic and only requires a sample of cells to be collected using a syringe. Because FNAC only collects a limited number of cells, the doctor may sometimes recommend a surgical biopsy.
There is no need to fast before the exam. It is usually a good idea to see the doctor before taking any special measures. Inform your physician about any current medications you are taking.
Bleeding, infection, and bruising at the site of the needle insertion are all possible consequences. These problems, however, are rare.
The FNAC test is generally considered safe for pregnant women. Depending on the circumstances, your doctor may advise you to wait until after birth to perform the test.
The test itself normally takes only a few minutes, but the total appointment can last up to an hour, depending on the location of the mass and any imaging tests that are required.
The accuracy of the FNAC test is determined by various factors, including the location and type of mass being evaluated, as well as the skill and experience of the clinician doing the test. When administered by a qualified practitioner, the test is highly accurate.
The cost of the FNAC test is approximately Rs. 1250.
