Diagnosis of malignant stricture of common bile duct： liquid-based cytology versus conventional cytology

Objective To evaluate the diagnostic value of liquid-based cytology in malignant stricture of common bile duct. Methods Between October 2008 and June 2009, patients suspected of having malignant stricture of common bile duct underwent brushing through endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography （ERCP）. Specimens were processed in two ways, liquid-based and conventional cytology, and positive diagnostic rates were compared. Results Among 76 cases of suspected malignant bile duct stricture, 65 were confirmed via surgical pathology, cytology tests or follow-up. Of all the 32 cases which were confirmed by cytology tests, 17 （26.2% , 17/65） were through conventional cytology, and 32 （49. 2%, 32/65） through liquid-based cytology, which were significantly different （ P 〈 0. 05 ）. Conclusion Compared with conventional cytology, liquid-based cytology can improve positive diagnostic rate of brushing during ERCP. Key words: Cholangiopancreatography, endoscopic retrograde ;  Cytological techniques