Cytological Study of Patients Presented with Head and Neck Swellings: Experiences of 100 Cases in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Head and neck swelling are common clinical issue with a broad spectrum of causes, ranging from benign conditions like infections and inflammation to malignant tumors. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a key diagnostic tool used to assess head and neck masses due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and minimally invasive nature. FNAC helps distinguish between benign and malignant lesions, aiding in timely diagnosis and appropriate management.

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the cytological findings of head and neck swellings.

Methodology: The prospective study was carried out from January 2022 to January 2024 in the pathology department of the Medical College for Women and Hospital. A total of 100 patients participated in this study. Patients presenting with head and neck swellings were included, while those with masses in other areas were excluded. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) was conducted under strict aseptic conditions using a 10 ml syringe with a 23 or 24-gauge needle, utilizing both aspiration and non-aspiration techniques. The samples collected were placed on glass slides, prepared, and stained with Papanicolaou (PAP) stain. Data were recorded on a pre-designed collection form and analyzed using SPSS software, version 25 for Windows.

Results: This study shows that the highest frequency of cases occurred in the 21 to 30-year age group, accounting for 26.0%. The FNAC results of 100 patients with head and neck swellings reveal that cervical lymph node lesions are the most common, accounting for 55.0% of cases. Thyroid gland lesions are the second most frequent at 29.0%. Salivary gland lesions represent 10.0% of cases, and soft tissue lesions are less common, each comprising 6.0%. Overall, cervical lymph node and thyroid gland lesions are the predominant causes of head and neck swellings in this group. Swelling in the head and neck region are more common in female than male, 74.0% cases and 26.0% cases respectively.

Conclusion: This study shows that cervical lymph node lesions are the most prevalent cause of neck swellings, emphasizing their importance in the differential diagnosis. Thyroid gland lesions are the second most common, highlighting the significant role of thyroid disorders in head and neck masses. Less frequently, swellings involve the salivary glands, as well as soft tissues. These results underscore the value of FNAC as a reliable diagnostic method for assessing the various pathological conditions linked to head and neck swellings.

Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research, January 2025;12(1):10-15