Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) is a type of biopsy in which cells are removed from a lump by needle and syringe, and then tested to see if cancer cells are present.
At UCSF's Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy Clinic, nationally and internationally recognized expert cytopathologists offer diagnostic consultation services in all areas of cytopathology.
In the past, a lump could only be studied by a potentially painful surgical procedure that could cause scarring or more complications. Using FNA, a sample of a lump is taken using a thin, small needle that leaves a mark no larger than a needle stick from a blood test. Test results are also quicker. A diagnosis of the lump is usually made within two to three days of the test.
You'll need a referral from your primary care provider or specialist to make an appointment. Once you have the referral, please call the number below.
Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy Clinic
1600 Divisadero St., Suite 200
San Francisco, CA 94143
Phone: (415) 353-7043
Fax: (415) 353-7676
Hours: Monday to Friday
9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Last updated May 17, 2012
First, the doctor will ask some questions about the lump — where it is, how and when you first became aware of it, if you've noticed any changes in it — and will feel the lump. Before the biopsy is performed, the doctor will answer any questions and address any concerns you might have about the procedure.
Then, holding the lump with one hand, the doctor will precisely sample the lump with a thin needle held in a needle holder, which provides greater control. Usually, two to three samples are needed from the lump to provide an accurate diagnosis.
During the procedure, the doctor will usually leave the exam room with one of the slides to check that there is enough tissue to prevent the need for a second office visit.
Each sample will only take about 10 seconds to obtain. The whole procedure from start to finish takes no more than 20 to 30 minutes.
Your primary care doctor or other health care provider will refer you to the clinic for a FNA biopsy. HMO patients will need prior approval. Before your appointment, go to the registration office, Room 108, to register for your FNA visit. For more information, call (415) 353-7043.
