Proposition of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology as a Diagnostic Tool in Cases of Cysticercosis by

Abstract

INTRoDuCTIoN: Cysticercosis in humans caused by the larval stage of Taenia solium is quite common in developing countries, including South Asia, and poses a serious health challenge in these countries. This study was mainly undertaken to prove the utility of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in the diagnosis of cysticercosis. MATeRIAlS AND MeThoDS:The study included cases diagnosed with cysticercosis by FNAC from January 2008 to December 2015 who were reviewed for clinical data, cytomorphologic findings, and, when available, histopathologic findings. ReSulTS:The study included 24 cases, the majority being women (67%) with a median age of 28 years. Most cases presented with head and neck swelling which was firm and nontender. Aspiration yielded a clear fluid aspirate in most cases (33%). Cytology revealed the presence of wall of parasite in all cases, with the presence of hooklets in 3 cases. CoNCluSIoNS:This study reinforces that in cases where a definite parasitic parenchymal layer can be seen, FNAC eliminates even the need for biopsy for confirmation.