| Abstract: | Between 1978 and 1983, 317 diagnostic fine needle aspirations (FNA) were procured at Indiana University by the Cytology, Radiology or Gynecology services for initial evaluation or follow-up of proven gynecologic malignancies. The primary sites of the neoplasms included the cervix, uterus, ovary, vagina and vulva. Totals of 199 samples were procured from superficial sites, including parametrium, vagina, subcutaneous tissue and superficial lymph nodes, and 118 were obtained from deep soft tissues, abdominal organs, pelvis and deep lymph nodes. Of the FNA specimens, 146 (46%) were cytologically diagnosed as malignant and 171 (54%) were reported as benign. Of the specimens initially given negative diagnoses, 35 (11%) were inadequate samples. No complications occurred as a result of FNA biopsy. All cases were reclassified using strict criteria for an inadequate specimen. After review, 79 biopsies were considered either scant (22%) or inappropriate (0.03%) for the target lesion. Scant specimens were obtained more often in superficial than in deep sites. No significant differences were found in the false-negative rate between superficial and deep sites; all false positives were from superficial sites. The use of strict criteria for adequacy of a sample (two groups of appropriate cells on two separate slides) yielded a specificity of 95%, an increased sensitivity from 73% to 91%, a predictive value for a positive result of 98% and a predictive value for a negative result of 84%. Use of strict criteria for specimen adequacy served to reemphasize two points regarding negative FNA results: that rebiopsy should be suggested and that on-site assessment of the specimen adequacy should be made during the aspiration. |
