A PROFILE OF PAROTID GLAND TUMORS FROM A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN PESHAWAR

Objectives: To evaluate the usefulness and accuracy of fine needle aspiration cytology in preoperative diagnosis of parotid gland tumours. Methodology: This comparative study was done at Department of Ear Nose and Throat, Lady Reading Hospital Peshawar from August 2008 to July 2009 in a total duration of one year. A total of 80 patients presented with masses of parotid glands and 50 patients fulfilling inclusion criteria were included in the study after diagnosing malignant on clinical picture. Fine needle aspiration cytology was performed by using 20 ml syringe attached with 22 G cannula. The results of fine needle aspiration cytology were categorized into: benign, malignant and suspicious. Final diagnosis was made on the basis of biopsy specimen. The diagnostic value of fine needle aspiration cytology in the study was determined in terms of accuracy, specificity and sensitivity. Results: A total of 80 patients presented with parotid masses. Fifty patients (62%) underwent fine needle aspiration cytology and the distribution of disease on fine needle aspiration cytology in parotid glands revealed as benign 38 (76%), malignant 4 (8%), and suspicious in 8 (16%) cases respectively. The cases positive / suspected for malignancy were confirmed with post operative histopathology. Fine needle aspiration cytology had an accuracy of 78%, sensitivity 53.28%, and specificity 88.57%. Conclusion: A positive result in fine needle aspiration cytology helps in diagnosing a malignancy. However, a negative result does not rule out malignancy. Therefore these results should be interpreted in conjunction with a critical clinical judgment.