Diagnostic Diversities of Pus-like Aspirates Encountered during Fine-needle Aspiration Cytology: An Observational Study in a Tertiary Medical Center in Eastern India

Abstract

Abstract Background: Pus-like aspirates (PLAs) are not uncommon in day-to-day cytology practice. An apparently looking simple pus may yield a diagnostic diversity ranging from simple suppurative inflammation to a carcinomatous lesion. Proper processing followed by patient examination may be lifesaving for a patient. Very few cytological studies on PLAs have been conducted in Eastern India. Materials and Methods: One hundred and four PLAs from 104 patients (53 males, 51 females) received during 6 months (January 2022–June 2022) were included in this study. Results: The adult age group (19–60 years) and involvement of the head-and-neck area were most common in this study. The sex ratio (male: female) was almost equal. Simple pyogenic abscess is the most common diagnosis, followed by granulomatous and tuberculous abscess. Some special diagnoses were revealed, such as fungal infection, lymphoma, and carcinoma. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of careful examination of PLAs as it may unmask some special diagnoses, even malignancy too. As a simple and quick outdoor-based study, prompt diagnosis and timely intervention may be lifesaving for some patients.