ENDOBRONCHIAL NEEDLE ASPIRATION IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF SMALL-CELL CARCINOMA

Endobronchial biopsy specimens of small-cell carcinoma often exhibit e xtensive crush artifact that precludes definitive diagnosis. Occasiona lly, cytologic study from the brushings and washings is also nondiagno stic, contributing to the frustration of the bronchoscopist. We review ed our experience with this problem over the past 4 years. We identifi ed five cases in which an endobronchial needle aspirate proved critica l in establishing the diagnosis of small-cell carcinoma. We believe en dobronchial needle aspiration is a valuable adjunct in the diagnosis o f endobronchial small-cell carcinoma.