Flow-cytometry-enhanced fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the spleen

Objective: Flow cytometry is proving useful in the evaluation of lymphoprol iferative disorders. In a case series, the authors investigated the safety of cross-sectional fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the spleen under sonogr aphic guidance, and the usefulness of flow cytometry in analysis of biopsy samples. Methods: Five patients underwent fine-needle biopsy with freehand sonographic guidance. Samples were analyzed on a flow cytometer. Results: T hrough cytologic examination enhanced by flow cytometry, 2 cases of lymphom a, 1 case of metastatic transitional cell carcinoma, and 1 case of focal sp lenic hemangioma were diagnosed. Normal lymphocytes were demonstrated in 1 case, in which long-term follow-up of splenomegaly showed that this was rel ated to cirrhosis and portal hypertension in a patient with a history of tr eated non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Conclusion: Flow-cytometry-enhanced fine-need le aspiration of the spleen is a safe and useful tool for the interventiona l radiologist. In our institution, it evolved as the result of effective te amwork between diagnostic radiologists and pathologists. Flow cytometry pro mises to be increasingly useful in the diagnosis and management of lymphopr oliferative diseases.