Understanding Thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC)
Thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a simple and minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose thyroid lesions. A thin needle is used to extract a small tissue sample from the thyroid gland for analysis, making it a quick and low-discomfort process.
Why is Thyroid FNAC Done?
Doctors recommend FNAC when a thyroid lesion is detected, either during an ultrasound or when a lump is felt in the neck. While many thyroid nodules are harmless, some may appear suspicious for cancer. FNAC helps confirm whether a nodule is benign or malignant, guiding the next steps in treatment.
How Are Thyroid Nodules Detected?
Thyroid nodules are often discovered during routine ultrasounds or when they grow large enough to be noticeable. If an ultrasound identifies benign features, no further action is usually needed. However, if a lesion shows suspicious characteristics, FNAC is the next step to assess the nature of the nodule.
How is the Procedure Done?
FNAC is typically performed with ultrasound guidance for precision:
1. Preparation: The patient lies on a table with the neck slightly extended. The skin is sterilized to prevent infection.
2. Local Anesthesia: A small injection numbs the area, ensuring minimal discomfort.
3. Needle Aspiration: A fine needle is inserted into the nodule under ultrasound guidance to collect cells for testing. This may involve 3-4 passes to gather enough material.
4. Post-Procedure Care: The puncture site is covered with a sterile dressing.
What Happens After FNAC?
After the procedure, patients are monitored briefly and can typically resume normal activities. Any mild discomfort, similar to that after a blood draw, can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Why is FNAC Important?
The extracted cells are analyzed under a microscope to determine if the nodule is benign or cancerous. If benign, no further treatment is needed apart from periodic monitoring. If cancer is detected, appropriate treatment can be planned promptly.
Thyroid FNAC is a safe and effective way to evaluate thyroid nodules, providing clarity and aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. At CENTAS we are equipped to provide FNAC in the comforts of our clinic.