Fine-needle biopsy cytology and DNA analysis. Their place in the evaluation and treatment of patients with thyroid neoplasms.

Fine-needle aspiration allows sampling of tissues without surgical biopsy. This technique provides accuracy, speed, patient acceptance, and individual cells for the study of neoplasia. When this procedure is combined with DNA analysis, it is possible to obtain preoperatively additional diagnostic and prognostic information superior to that obtained by clinical and morphologic methods alone. This information is of utmost importance when planning appropriate treatment.