Comparative Study of Cell Block Versus Centrifuged Smear Examination from Aspirates of Body Cavities - A Cross Sectional Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: Evaluation of effusion fluid cytology has become integral part of management in suspected malignant cases. Conventional smear (CS) is relatively simple, but it becomes challenging to differentiate in cases of reactive mesothelial cells and malignant mesothelial cells. Hence, Cell block (CB) preparation is gaining popularity for management. Objectives: To depict a comparison between conventional cytology smear and cell block preparation of all types of fluid. Material and methods: All the fluid samples received in the department of pathology, were divided into two parts, one part was stained for conventional smears and the second part was centrifuged and Bouin's fixative was added and cell block was made and stained with papanicolaou (PAP) stain and Haematoxylin -Eosin stain (H&E). Diagnosis obtained on conventional smears and cell blockwere statically analyzed.Results: Out of total 30 fluid samples, 17 were pleural fluid, 8 were Ascitic fluid and 5 cases were peritoneal fluid.1 fluid sample was unsuitable, 28 fluid sample were adequate, 1 fluid sample was adequate and suspicious for evaluation, 19 cases were non -neoplastic, 2 were suspicious for malignancy, 9 cases were positive for malignancy.Conclusion: Cell block is much superior to conventional cytology smears for diagnosis of malignant effusions and hence Cell block should be used in adjunct to conventional smears in difficult or suspected malignant cases in routine practices.