Comparison Between Imprint Cytology and Histopathology Results in Pleural Effusion Cases Undergoing Pleuroscopy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36497/jri.v46i2.1111Keywords:
cytopathology, lung malignancy, pleural effusion, pleuroscopy, rapid diagnosisAbstract
Background: Pleuroscopy is a valuable minimally invasive procedure for evaluating undiagnosed pleural effusion. Rapid diagnosis of malignancy is often needed to reduce procedure time and patient discomfort, particularly when pleurodesis is planned. Imprint cytology is a quick and simple method, though underutilized in pleuroscopy practice in Indonesia. This study aimed to compare the diagnostic yield of imprint cytology and histopathology in pleural effusion cases undergoing pleuroscopy.
Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted from August to November 2024 and included patients with pleural effusion who underwent diagnostic pleuroscopy. Pleural biopsies were taken using forceps. Imprint cytology was performed by directly smearing the biopsy tissue onto slides, followed by staining. Histopathology was done using standard tissue processing.
Results: Of the 25 patients who underwent pleuroscopy, 14 met the inclusion criteria. Pleuroscopic findings varied, with the most common being mass lesions (35.7%), followed by multiple nodules (21.4%) and sago-nodules (14.3%). Histopathology revealed malignancy in 10 patients (71.4%) and non-malignant in 4 (28.6%). Imprint cytology detected malignancy in 12 patients (85.7%) and non-malignant findings in 2 patients (14.3%).
Conclusion: Imprint cytology offers a rapid and reliable diagnostic method during pleuroscopy, particularly in resource-limited settings. It may facilitate early detection of malignancy and support timely clinical decision-making.
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