Transrectal cytological aspiration biopsy in prostatic disease.

Of 761 fine-needle biopsy specimens obtained from the prostate by the method of Franzén, 303 originated from patients in whom either a histological diagnosis had been obtained or cancer had been confirmed by increased levels of prostatic phosphatases. Among palpable cancers, 83% were diagnosed by this method, and none of them gave falsely negative results. Among the cancers with benign palpatory findings and normal phosphatase levels, cytological examination did not show cancer in any of the cases. It is concluded that the method is unsuited for screening of proctatic cancer, but its use is indicated for the confirmation of the diagnosis in cases with abnormal palpatory findings, and when the diagnosis seems likely from the results of biochemical analysis and/or radiographic studies. On these indications, repeated aspiration should be done if the first biopsy specimen does not reveal cancer.