Cytomorphologic findings of lymph node lesions; use of fine needle aspiration as the evaluation tool for lymphadenopathy: a retrospective study conducted at Makerere University Pathology Laboratory Kampala Central Uganda

Abstract

Introduction. Enlarged lymph nodes, commonly termed as lymphadenopathy is a common and worrying presentation both in adults and children . It can occur at any site of lymph node but most commonly seen at the cervical, supraclavicular, submandibular, axillary, and inguinal group of lymph nodes. Lymphadenopathy is frequently due to local or systemic, benign, self limited infectious diseases. However it could be due to malignancy which can be primary [lymphomas] or metastatic neoplasms. Fine needle aspiration cytology is at the moment one of the most valuable diagnostic aids. It is very affordable gives fast and reliable results and causes little trauma to the patient. Materials and methods. The study was done at makchs department of pathology FNAC clinic. A respective study on the archived records of the patients who were reffered to the Fnac clinic were obtained and the results recorded. Results. The male to female ratio was 0.9: 1, the most affected geographical area was central region of Uganda at 53.74%. The commonest age group affected was 21-30years for the non neoplastic and 51-60 for the neoplastic. Cervical group of lymph nodes accounted for the commonest site of lymphadenopathy at 45.57%. Granulomatous/ tb lymphadenitis accounted for42.18% followed by metastatic cancers at 21.77% followed by reactive lymphadenitis at 17.68% followed by non Hodgkin lymphoma at 12.93% then last was Hodgkin lymphoma at 3.44% Discussion. TB and HIV are still rampant in Uganda. More is needed to be done to reduce the spread of the co infections and drug resistance. Metastatic malignancies were observed in the elderly patients. This could be due to delayed presentation of the patients at the right health facilities which offer screening services and quick follow up.