Journal of Cytology & Histology

The Usefulness of Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy in the Diagnosis of Mediastinal Lesions

Abstract

Marry Fasul*

Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB) is a minimally invasive procedure that is commonly used in the diagnosis of mediastinal lesions. The mediastinum is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity that contains various structures such as the heart, major blood vessels, lymph nodes, and other organs. Mediastinal lesions can include tumors, cysts, lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes), and other abnormal growths. FNAB involves inserting a thin needle into the mediastinal lesion to collect a small sample of cells or tissue for examination under a microscope. This procedure can be performed with the guidance of imaging techniques such as ultrasound, Computed Tomography (CT), or Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) to precisely target the lesion. FNAB provides an accurate diagnosis in a significant number of cases. It allows for the evaluation of the cellular composition of the lesion, which helps differentiate between benign and malignant conditions. The examination of the obtained cells or tissue by a pathologist can determine the presence of cancer, infection, inflammation, or other pathological processes.