Aspiration Cytology of Solid Renal Tumours

Abstract

The results of needle aspiration cytology of solid renal lesions in Brighton from 1977 have been reviewed. Thirty-one lesions were aspirated and of the 21 malignant tumours, cytology accurately diagnosed 19 (90%) when sufficient material was sent for analysis. Of the eight avascular solid renal space-occupying lesions aspirated, cytology gave a correct differentiation (benign versus malignant) in seven (87%). The results compare favourably with those of other published experience. A modification is suggested to the accepted diagnostic pathway.

Fine-needle aspiration of the adult kidney

“…2,6 The majority of cysts are benign, acquired, and soli-( In most series with histologic follow-up, radiographically suspicious cysts almost always prove to be RCC. 4,7,10 Finally, in the largest series of cystic RCCs to date (11 cases), only 2 cases had atypical cells on cytologic examination, and repeated aspirates in these 2 patients were negative. 44 This strongly suggests that the sensitivity of FNA for the diagnosis of cystic RCC is low, and will remain so despite attempts to thoroughly sample the edge of radiographically cystic lesions.…”

“…The authors believe that cytopathologists must ses. 3,7,43 The appearance of the metastasis depends on the be able to identify benign lesions, and also grade and primary tumor. However, in general, in contrast to RCC, subtype RCCs.…”

Accuracy of Fine Needle Aspiration in Distinguishing Subtypes of Renal Cell Carcinoma

“…10,15,32 However, despite substantial literature describing the cytologic features of various RCC subtypes, the reliability of these criteria in distinguishing these subtypes from each other has not been assessed. Some of the features we think are most useful are listed in Table II.…”

The Case against Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology for Small Solid Kidney Tumors

“…Some authors suggested to per form FNAC as a routine procedure when ultrasound revealed a solid renal mass [9,10]. If the radiological diag nosis is not clear, one should keep in mind that the major ity of solid hypovascular renal lesions are malignant.…”

“…It is inserted into the tumor under CT or ultra sound guidance, and viable tumor cells are aspirated, preferentially from the periphery of the tumor, since the central part often contains only necrotic cells [9,10].…”