FNAC Test in India – Procedure, Report, Risks & Affordable Price | Ashtvinayak Hospital
FNAC Test – What It Is, How It Works, and What to Expect Book An Appointment Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a simple, quick, and highly effective diagnostic test that helps identify the cause of lumps or swellings in the body. It plays a crucial role in early diagnosis of infections, inflammations, and tumors, thereby guiding timely treatment. In this blog, we explain everything about the FNAC test – from its meaning and procedure to types, risks, results, and affordable pricing at Ashtvinayak Multispeciality Hospital What is the FNAC Test? – Meaning, Full Form & Purpose FNAC (Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology) FNAC Test Means: FNAC is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to extract cellular material using a thin, hollow needle. It is commonly performed on palpable lumps such as in the neck, breast, thyroid, or lymph nodes. Purpose of FNAC: To diagnose infections, inflammations, or tumors. To distinguish between benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tumors. Frequently used in areas such as: Lymph nodes Thyroid gland Breast tissue Salivary glands When is an FNAC Test Recommended? – Use Cases & Indications Common Conditions Where FNAC is Used: Swollen lymph nodes Thyroid nodules Breast lumps Suspicious or cancerous growths in the body Diagnostic vs Therapeutic FNAC: Diagnostic FNAC: Conducted to determine the nature of a lump (whether it’s malignant, benign, or inflammatory). Therapeutic FNAC: Sometimes used to aspirate or drain fluid from cysts or abscesses to relieve symptoms. FNAC Procedure Explained – What Happens During the Test? How to Prepare for an FNAC Test? Typically, no fasting or other preparations are required. Inform your doctor if you are taking blood thinners or any other regular medication. What to Expect During the Procedure A fine needle is placed into the bulge. In some cases, USG-guided FNAC is used for more accuracy (especially for non-palpable or deep lesions). To alleviate any discomfort, local anesthetic may be provided. The complete treatment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. What Happens After the FNAC Test? Mild discomfort, pain, or slight bruising at the needle insertion site may occur. Normal activities can be resumed immediately unless otherwise advised by your physician. FNAC Test Types – Variations Based on Need 1. Palpation-Guided FNAC Done using hand palpation for easily felt lumps (like in the neck or breast). 2. Ultrasound-Guided FNAC (USG-guided) Useful when the lump is small, deep, or hard to palpate. Real-time ultrasound helps guide the needle accurately. 3. CT-Guided FNAC Ideal for complex or deeply located swellings, especially in the abdomen or chest. Uses CT imaging to guide needle placement with precision. FNAC Procedure Explained – What Happens During the Test? Once your FNAC sample has been collected, it is taken to a laboratory where cytopathologists study the cells under a microscope. FNAC Test Normal Report Cells appear normal with no signs of infection or malignancy. FNAC Test Positive indicate the presence of aberrant, diseased, or malignant cells. It may be essential to conduct more testing or a biopsy. FNAC Test Negative Indicates a benign (non-cancerous) condition or absence of any abnormality. What are the potential risks and side effects of FNAC? FNAC is a relatively safe procedure that has few side effects. Mild pain or bruising at the site Slight bleeding in rare cases Extremely rare complications if done in deep or vascular regions Importantly, FNAC does not cause the spread of cancer FNAC Test Price in India – Cost Breakdown Average FNAC Test Price in India Cost ranges from ₹500 to ₹2500 based on: The city or region The hospital or diagnostic facility Whether the test is guided (USG/CT) or unguided. Affordable FNAC Test at Ashtvinayak Multispeciality Hospital We provide USG-guided FNAC using advanced imaging technology Transparent billing with reasonable pricing Skilled pathologists ensure accurate and reliable results Comparison – FNAC vs Core Needle Biopsy Feature FNAC Core Needle Biopsy Invasiveness Minimally invasive Slightly more invasive Sample Cells only Tissue sample Recovery Quick Slightly longer Accuracy High for many cases Higher when architectural detail is needed FNAC is preferred for initial evaluation Core biopsy may follow if detailed tissue structure is needed When Should You Call Your Doctor After an FNAC Test? While problems are uncommon, contact your doctor if you have: Chronic discomfort or edema at the puncture location Bleeding or discharge Fever or chills Any unusual symptoms not discussed before the procedure Benefits of FNAC Test – Why It’s Widely Used Painless and minimally invasive Provides quick and accurate diagnosis No need for hospital admission Can be repeated if needed Suitable for patients of all ages, including the elderly. A Note from Ashtvinayak Multispeciality Hospital At Ashtvinayak Multispeciality Hospital, we believe in delivering precise and early diagnosis through advanced diagnostic procedures like FNAC. Our specialists in radiology and pathology perform FNAC with utmost accuracy. We use modern ultrasound and CT-guided techniques for safe, pain-free sampling. We ensure patient comfort, transparent costs, and detailed reports reviewed by experienced cytologists. Need to investigate a lump or swelling? Book your FNAC test with us today. FAQs About FNAC Test What is the full form of FNAC? Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology Is FNAC test painful? It causes minimal pain, similar to a blood test or vaccination. How long does it take to receive FNAC test results? Typically, 1–3 working days depending on lab availability. Can FNAC detect cancer? Yes, it can detect cancerous cells and help guide next steps in treatment Is fasting required before an FNAC test? Not usually.Your doctor will let you know if any special preparation is required Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology It causes minimal pain, similar to a blood test or vaccination. Typically, 1–3 working days depending on lab availability. Yes, it can detect cancerous cells and help guide next steps in treatment Not usually.Your doctor will let you know if any special preparation is required Conclusion – Early Diagnosis, Better Outcomes FNAC is a powerful, low-cost diagnostic tool that offers quick answers to unexplained swellings or nodules. It’s simple, safe, and effective – making it an ideal first-line test
