Cytopuncture

A cytopuncture involves recovering cells using a needle inserted into an "abnormal" area.

The cells recovered in this procedure are then analysed by a cytologist who will determine whether abnormalities are present and if these suggest cancer. Cytopunctures are taken for example from breast and thyroid nodules.

Cytopuncture is not the only way of obtaining cells for cytological examination. Smears can be used to recover cells by scraping an abnormal area.