The Diagnostic Accuracy of Imprint Cytology in Breast Lesions

Abstract

BACKGROUND:The imprint cytology is one of the rapid diagnostic tools in the field of diagnostic pathology. This method not only helps us to examine the individual cells but also aids in analyzing the patterns of particular lesion. Differentiating between benign and malignant lesions prior to or during surgery, helps the surgeon to decide on the extent of surgery. AIMS: The present study was conducted to know the accuracy of intraoperative imprint smears and to compare the results with that of histopathological sections in all breast tumors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a descriptive study on 100 cases of breast lesions comprising of inflammatory, benign & malignant. Results were compared with histopathology. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value. RESULTS: Out of 100 cases, 50 cases were diagnosed as benign and 50 cases as malignant lesions on imprint smear. Fibroadenoma (26%) was the most common benign lesion and invasive ductal carcinoma (38%) was the most common malignant lesion. The sensitivity and specificity of imprint cytology were 98% and 96.1% respectively. 96% PPV, 98% NPV and 97% overall diagnostic accuracy was observed for imprint cytology in the present study. CONCLUSIONS: Imprint cytology is a simple, accurate, rapid & cost effective diagnostic tool used intra operatively, where in facilities for frozen sections are not available.