Interventional cytopathology in the COVID‐19 era

Abstract

Introduction The dramatic spread of COVID-19 has raised many questions about cytological procedures performed in and out of the laboratories all over the world. Methods We report a heterogeneous series of fine needle aspirations performed during the period of phase 1 of the lockdown for the COVID-19 pandemic to describe our experience and measures taken during this period. Results A total of 48 fine needle aspirations (ultrasound, computed tomography and endoscopic ultrasound guided) were processed and reported. Conclusions Pre-existing procedures have been modified to allow healthcare professionals to work safely ensuring patients the necessary assistance with samples suitable for cellularity, fixation and staining for an accurate cytological diagnosis.