Pathology• Updated 21 October 2026
FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology)
A quick test that uses a thin needle to take cells from a lump, often in the thyroid, breast or lymph nodes.
Results: A few days Specimen: Cells from a lump
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To find out whether a lump is benign, infected or cancerous.
What It Measures
Cells under the microscope.
Preparation
No special preparation.
Overview
FNAC is less invasive than a surgical biopsy.
It's often guided by ultrasound.
What It Measures
Cells
Type and features.
How It's Performed
- 01
Clean
The skin is cleaned.
- 02
Needle
A thin needle takes cells.
- 03
Pressure
Brief pressure afterwards.
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Your doctor will explain what your result means and what happens next.
If values are High:
Results may show the lump is benign or need further tests.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Biopsy(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Biopsy(opens in a new tab) · NHS