: Breast Cytology, Fine-Needle Aspiration, with Cytopathologist Review

: What This Test Is

: In a fine-needle aspiration (FNA), a thin needle is used to draw fluid and cells from a breast lump or area. The sample is smeared on slides and examined under a microscope by a cytopathologist, a specialist in interpreting cell samples. This test looks at individual cells rather than the full tissue structure, which is what a surgical biopsy provides.

: Why It May Be Done

: Your provider may recommend breast FNA to evaluate a palpable lump, a cyst, or an abnormal finding on mammogram or ultrasound. It is often used to check whether a lump is a simple fluid-filled cyst or a solid mass, and to help decide whether additional testing such as a core needle or surgical biopsy is needed.

: How to Prepare

: Ask your care team about any medications that affect bleeding, such as blood thinners, and follow their instructions. Tell your provider if you are pregnant or have breast implants, as this may affect how the procedure is done. No special fasting is usually required, but confirm with your provider.

: What to Expect and How Results Are Reported

: The procedure is typically quick and done in a clinic; you may feel a brief pinch or pressure, and mild bruising can occur. Results are usually reported as non-diagnostic/insufficient, benign, atypical, suspicious for malignancy, or malignant. Because FNA samples single cells, some findings cannot be fully classified on cytology alone, and your provider may recommend a tissue biopsy for confirmation.