: Cytology, Fine Needle Aspiration
: This test examines cells collected with a thin needle from a lump or mass to help determine whether the tissue is benign or suspicious for disease.
[": Fine needle aspiration cytology provides a minimally invasive first look at the nature of a mass."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31187-8
- Short code
- Cyto LN FNA
- Synonyms
- Cyto LN FNA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 136
- Ref high
- 145
- Critical range
- 120 N/A – 160 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- cyto-stain
- CPT
- 84295
- SNOMED
- 110741000
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What This Test Is
: Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is a procedure in which a thin needle is used to withdraw a small sample of cells from a lump, nodule, or fluid-filled area. A cytologist or pathologist then examines those cells under a microscope. It is called cytology because it evaluates individual cells rather than the intact tissue architecture seen on a biopsy.
: How the Sample Is Collected
: A clinician, often using ultrasound or another imaging guide, inserts the needle into the target area and gently draws cells into a syringe. The sample is spread onto slides and may be stained for examination. The procedure is usually quick, often done in an office or clinic, and typically requires little recovery time.
: How Results Are Reported
: Results are commonly described using categories such as non-diagnostic, benign, atypical, suspicious, or malignant, though exact terminology varies by laboratory and body site. Some sites use standardized reporting systems. A cytology result is a screening or preliminary assessment and may lead to further testing.
: Limits of the Test
: Because FNA samples only a small number of cells, it can occasionally miss a lesion or provide insufficient material for a definitive answer. It generally cannot show how cells are arranged within the tissue. In those cases, a core biopsy or surgical biopsy may be recommended.
Reference range
Adult: 136-145 mmol/LN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: FNA cytology is widely used to evaluate thyroid nodules, breast masses, lymph nodes, salivary gland lesions, and other accessible lumps. It helps guide decisions about whether observation, repeat sampling, or more invasive testing is appropriate. A benign result is reassuring but should be interpreted together with imaging and clinical findings, and any suspicious or indeterminate result usually prompts further evaluation.
Short name
: FNA Cytology
Frequently asked questions
: Does an FNA hurt?
: Can an FNA diagnose cancer?
: How long do results take?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy