Cytology Microscopy Bronchial Washings

The nature of possible underlying disease states including cancer or infections can often be detected by microscopically visualizing cytological changes in cells which are exfoliated and captured by fluid extraction from body cavity, brushings, washings, or fine needle aspirations. Cytology of pulmonary lesions provides valuable diagnostic information by non/minimally invasive procedures. It may be a valuable investigation in situations where biopsy procedure cannot be attempted due to high risk of hemorrhage. The cytological methods presently available for studying the lung pathology are exfoliative (induced sputum), abrasive cytology (bronchioalveolar lavage BAL, bronchial brushing BB, bronchial washing and percutaneous/endobronchial fine-needle aspiration cytology). Cell yield in a BB is better than aspirate and washing. However, wash technique samples out the areas beyond the reach of brush. BAL was introduced as a therapeutic measure to clear alveolar spaces filled with secretion in alveolar proteinosis and bronchial asthma. It was later utilized for diagnostic pulmonary cytology providing a high accuracy rate. Bronchial wash cytology is a widely accepted safe, simple, and minimally invasive technique to evaluate cell morphology. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of bronchial wash cytology in the diagnosis of bronchopulmonary lesions and assess the role of morphometry in categorizing dysplastic/malignant lesions. Bronchial wash cytology has low sensitivity in detecting pulmonary lesions. It can be of value in patients with contraindication for biopsy. Morphometry can be a useful adjunct to cytomorphology, especially in situations where biopsy is contraindicated.

No special preparation is needed for Cytology Microscopy Bronchial Washings. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing Cytology Microscopy Bronchial Washings. Your doctor depending on your condition will give specific instructions.