My father has recently been diagnosed with Lung cancer, the doctor has arrange for a FNA to check his glands. I am confused as I taught this test was to check the glands at the upper part of his lung but on reading some info on the net I am lead to believe that the glands which the neddle will be inserted to are actually in the neck. is this correct? or could this test be preformed to test glands on the upper part of the lung? Thanks Lorraine
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your situation and problem. FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology) is a technique in which cells are aspirated through needle insertion in the mass. It is simple, easy to perform, less harmful and day care procedure. And it can be done in any mass or swelling of the body which superficial or easily accessible. Since neck is the common site for enlarged glands and swelling, FNAC is procedure of choice for diagnosis. And lung mass, if superficial and easily accessible then FNAC is also indicated and can be diagnostic. So no need to worry, get done FNAC from lung mass.  It is very safe procedure.