[Comparison of fine needle aspiration cytology and histology in hepatocellular carcinoma and in liver metastasis].

Abstract

The cytological findings in fine needle aspiration biopsies of 5 hepatocellular carcinomas and 9 secondary liver tumours were compared with the histological findings in autopsy or surgical material. Definite diagnosis of malignancy was made in all cases. Similarity with liver cells, arrangement of the tumor cells corresponding to the different histological types of hepatocellular carcinoma, and the presence of bile pigment characterize the cytological picture of the hepatocellular carcinoma. Pleomorphic tumour cells and prominent nucleoli are other typical cytological findings. Liver metastasis were correctly typed in nearly all cases by the cytological examinations. The attempt to suggest the primary site is more difficult, but possible in some cases.