Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) is a rapid, cost-effective procedure used in the diagnosis of palpable masses.  FNAs allow doctors to investigate superficial (just under the skin) lumps that are present in a patient's lymph nodes, thyroid, salivary glands or other areas. 

For lumps that can easily be felt, FNAs are performed in-house by a board certified CellNetix pathologist at our Seattle location. There are many advantages to having an FNA performed at CellNetix:

• Expert pathologists can immediately assess the specimen microscopically for adequacy
• Expert pathologists can complete a preliminary diagnosis to determine the need for additional aspirations or change in aspiration/technique
• Immediate assessment allows the pathologist to triage the specimen for additional studies such as culture, flow cytometry, cytogenetics or cell block for immunohistochemical evaluation

More information on FNA testing by CellNetix pathologists 

HOW TO ORDER AN FNA PROCEDURE

FNAs can be scheduled by the ordering provider or the patient and requires a written request from the clinician on either a laboratory requisition form or prescription slip.

Written requests should include:

• patient name
• date of birth
• anatomic site
• clinical history
• other pertinent information

HOW TO PROVIDE A WRITTEN REQUEST 

• Fax to the laboratory at 866-721-9696
• Patient can present written request to laboratory personnel at the time of their appointment 
• Verbal orders are accepted, but must be followed by written confirmation

Patient brochures about the FNA process at CellNetix, with directions to our facility, are available through Partner Relations at 866-236-8296.