Correlation Of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) With Histopathology In Patients With Breast Lumps In A Rural Tertiary Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Breast lumps are a common clinical presentation, and early diagnosis is crucial for effective management. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a minimally invasive, cost-effective diagnostic tool frequently used to evaluate breast lesions. Histopathology remains the gold standard for definitive diagnosis.

Aims:This study aims to assess the diagnostic accuracy of FNAC by correlating its findings with histopathological results.

Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Pathology at Maheshwara Medical College and Hospital, Sangareddy district, Telangana, from November 2022 to June 2024. It included a total of 60 patients with breast lumps who underwent fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) followed by lump excision.

Results: In our study of 60 patients with breast lumps, the majority were in the 18–30 years age group (56.6%). FNAC revealed that most lesions were benign (93.3%), with only 6.6% malignant. Histopathology confirmed similar findings, showing 95% benign and 5% malignant lesions. Among the malignant cases, invasive ductal carcinoma was the most common (66.6%), followed by malignant phyllodestumor (33.3%).

Conclusion: FNAC is a safe, rapid, and cost-effective diagnostic tool for evaluating breast lumps in a rural healthcare setting. Its findings show strong correlation with histopathology, making it a valuable first-line investigation. Early and accurate diagnosis through FNAC can facilitate timely management, particularly in resource-limited settings.