Acronym

FNA - Fine Needle Aspiration

Fine Needle Aspiration

Image-guided biopsy using 25 to 27 gauge needle for cytology

Expansion

Fine Needle Aspiration

Purpose

Minimally invasive sampling for nodule evaluation

Clinical Context

Fine needle aspiration uses 25 to 27 gauge needle, cytology obtained. Low complication rate. Less tissue than core needle biopsy. Bethesda classification for thyroid fine needle aspiration.

  • Core needle biopsy
  • Biopsy

Key Points

  • “Fine needle aspiration: rapid, low complication rate, but lower cellularity than core needle biopsy; higher non-diagnostic rate”