Fine needle aspiration cytodiagnosis of toxoplasmic lymphadenitis.

OBJECTIVE

To study six cases of toxoplasmic lymphadenitis in which the diagnosis was made by fine needle aspiration cytology and confirmed by subsequent serology.

STUDY DESIGN

For cytologic study the material was received as needle and syringe washings, air-dried smears and alcohol-fixed smears, which were prepared and appropriately stained. Additionally, cell blocks were made, processed, cut and stained.

RESULTS

The cytohistologic features were characterized by a polymorphous population of cells, germinal centers, a few epithelioid-type cells and histiocytes with intracellular organisms resembling Toxoplasma gondii. Serologic testing for toxoplasma in all the cases revealed elevated titers.

CONCLUSION

Lymphadenitis due to Toxoplasma infection is common and should be considered in the diagnosis of unexplained lymphadenopathy at all sites, especially the cervical region. Serologic confirmation should be recommended for all suspected cases of this self-limited condition, for which no treatment is necessary. Fine needle aspiration cytodiagnosis can eliminate the need for hospitalization and surgery.