Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Fine-needle cytology sampling, when adequate, is highly sensitive and specific for tissue-type diagnosis, with figures of 94% and 88%, respectively. This study explores the technique of sampling to reduce interoperator variability and ensure maximal tissue yield. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Apple cortical tissue was sampled as a proxy of human lymph node. A total of 200 samples, by four methods, with 50 by each sampling method, were taken using blue venepuncture needles and weighed to assess tissue yield. RESULTS: Results were analysed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's HSD test. Comparable yields, by mass, were achieved by both straight lance and coring techniques (P > 0.05). Significantly greater yield was achieved with a multiplanar technique (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Multiplanar sampling increases mass yield of tissue in fine-needle sampling. Coring appears to have little bearing on yield.