Comparison of Transrectal Ultrasound Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology with Core Needle Biopsy in the Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer

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The technique can be implemented not just as a method for detecting prostatic carcinoma but also for tumour grading, which is of utmost importance in deciding type of therapy. FNAC can also be utilized for early detection of recurrences of prostatic carcinoma. It also has the advantages of negligible bleeding due to the size of the needle being significantly smaller. It is less traumatic and can be performed with little or no analgesia and thus can be repeated with minimal distress to the patient. It can therefore be a valuable tool in patients requiring repeated biopsies as part of follow up. The result of FNAC is also very rapid as the smear can be stained and read within 30 minutes thus making repeat biopsy possible even before the patient goes home. This is also valuable in patients with advanced disease presenting with impending paraplegia where urgent diagnosis is necessary without further delay.