RAPID STAINING TECHNIQUES EMPLOYED IN FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATIONS OF THE LUNG

Abstract

Consecutive patients (52) ranging in age from 22-90 yr underwent percutaneous transthoracic fine needle aspiration biopsy under fluoroscopic guidance. A quick staining and rapid interpretation technique was used on samples from the 37 most recent cases. Rapid staining was accomplished within 5 min and interpretation was available < 15 min after obtaining the specimen. Successful diagnosis was obtained in 36 of 37 patients (97%). Standard methods using a single aspiration sample yielded a successful diagnosis in 13 of 15 patients (86%). The improved rate of successful diagnosis following the rapid stain technique reflects the advantage of being able to determine the adequacy of specimens before releasing patients from the procedure room.