STUDY OF FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION CYTOLOGY IN LYMPHADENOPATHY IN CHILDREN

BACKGROUND: Lymphadenopathy is one of the commonest clinical presentation among the children (0-14years) having several etiologies and can pose a diagnostic dilemma to a pediatrician. FNAC is an important and rapid diagnostic modality for the etiologic workup in significant lymphadenopathy. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To know the incidence of various causes of lymphadenopathy in children. To know the advantages of FNAC over surgical biopsy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study comprises of FNAC of lymph nodes of 120 cases in pediatric age between 0-14years with lymphadenopathy, who attended the OPD and those admitted in Khaja Banda Nawaz Teaching and General Hospital, Gulbarga during the period between JAN 2013 to DEC 2014. Detailed history and thorough clinical examination and routine examination was done on approach of the patient. FNAC was carried out in all cases on significant lymph nodes and aspirated materials was smeared and sent to laboratory various stains were used for staining cytological smears. RESULTS: Over all lymphadenopathy was common in (5-10years) age (35%), higher in males (54.1%) than females. Anatomically cervical lymphadenopathy was commonest (90%). Most common cause was found to be TB lymphadenitis. CONCLUSION: FNAC of lymph node in children is simple rapid diagnostic method with minimum discomfort to the patient and readily accepted by them.