Aspiration cytology in tumor diagnostics

Aspiration cytology (fi ne-needle aspiration, FNA) has increasing role in cancer diagnostics. The review briefl y introduces the relevant methods, their place in the clinical protocolls to identify the given lesions, emphasising advantages and disadvantages. An overview is given on the acceptance of FNA worldwide, and also in Hungary based on private experiences. In certain cases examples are summarized how FNA can contribute to the identifi cation of the diseases, with some important comments, such as the limitations of the method. Finally, the expected results are evaluated, together with the possibilities to optimalize the outcome.