CYST FLUID CYTOLOGY

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Specimen: Cyst fluid from various sites, eg thyroid, ovary, breast, should be sent to the laboratory as soon as possible after aspiration.

Method: Microscopic examination of the cellular component after centrifugation and staining; measurement of oestrogen levels in ovarian cyst fluids.

Application: Investigation of cystic lesions at various sites to determine the nature of the underlying process.

Interpretation: Identification of the nature of the cystic lesion, especially in the differentiation of benign and malignant processes. High levels of oestrogens in an ovarian cyst are indicative of a follicular origin.

Reference: Orell SI et al. Manual and Atlas of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology. 2nd ed. Churchill Livingstone, 1992.

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