Role of fine needle aspiration in the diagnosis of lesions of the oral cavity, oropharynx, and nasopharynx

The oral cavity, oropharynx and nasopharynx are readily accessible to fine needle aspiration (FNA). This study reviews the authors' experience with 93 FNA from these sites: 76 from the oral cavity, eight from the oropharynx, and eight from the nasopharynx. Thirty-nine (42%) of the FNA were positive for malignancy with no false-positive diagnoses. In 15 cases the FNA provided the initial diagnosis of cancer and in 24 cases documented recurrence. Five (5%) of the FNA interpreted as suspicious for malignancy were subsequently proven malignant by biopsy. There were 33 (36%) negative FNA with seven false-negative diagnoses confirmed by biopsies. Fifteen FNA (16%) were unsatisfactory and malignancy was found by biopsy in two of these cases. These results emphasize the importance of repeating the FNA or recommending biopsies in negative and unsatisfactory FNA when clinically indicated to assure accuracy in diagnosis. A positive FNA may be regarded as a definitive diagnostic test and treatment instituted accordingly. No complications resulted from these FNA. This study demonstrates the application, safety, and accuracy of FNA in these anatomic site.