Computed Topographic-Guided Core Needle Biopsy of Lung Masses: Our Experience at a Diagnostic Center in Western India

Abstract

Introduction: Lung carcinomas are one of the most common malignancies and major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. India also shares a great burden of this disease. Computed topography (CT)-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology of lung masses is a widely used and simple diagnostic tool which is being replaced increasingly by CT-guided core biopsies. This study shows our experience at a diagnostic center. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted over a period of 1 year from April 2018 to April 2019 and consisted of 107 cases. After taking detailed history, CT-guided core biopsies were obtained using coaxial needles of 17–19 gauge and biopsy needles of 18–20 gauge. The tissues were then examined histopathologically and the results were noted. Results: Out of the 107 patients, 81.3% were male and 18.7% were female. The age range of patients was from 33 to 92 years, with mean age being 63.7 years. Majority of the lesions were located in the right lung (57.9%). The most common histopathological diagnosis was squamous cell carcinoma 74.7%, followed by small cell carcinoma (12.1%) and adenocarcinoma (9.3%), Hodgkin lymphoma (1.8%), malignant mesothelioma (0.9%), and angiosarcoma (0.9%). Conclusions: This study shows our experience regarding lung malignancies in a diagnostic center in Western India. The epidemiology of lung malignancies seen across the Indian subcontinent reflects in our study. CT-guided core needle biopsies though less invasive may cause complications in some patients. Hence, utmost care should be taken during the procedure to ensure patient safety.

Keywords

• carcinoma
• computed topography
• core needle biopsy
• lungs
• non-small cell carcinoma
• small cell carcinoma
• squamous cell carcinoma.