Cytogenetics
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology Procedure with Reporting
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a minimally invasive procedure to collect cells from lumps or masses for diagnostic analysis, aiding in the early detection of conditions like cancer.
General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.
Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.
At a glance
Plan your test
- Sample
- Cellular material obtained via fine needle aspiration.
- Results
- Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
- Preparation
- Requires a doctor's prescription. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, pregnancy status, or upcoming surgery.
Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.
Insurance & government schemes
Is this test covered for you?
We help you verify whether the Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology Procedure with Reporting test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.
Providers & schemes we can help you check
Government & public schemes
Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.
Private insurers & employer schemes
Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.
Have these ready when we check
- Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
- A clinician's request / prescription for the test
- Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one
Free coverage check
Ask us to verify your cover
Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.
Start with fit
Is this the right test for you?
The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.
- ✓Evaluation of palpable lumps or masses
- ✓Investigation of unexplained swelling
- ✓Diagnosis of suspected cancer
- ✓Monitoring of known conditions
- ✓Assessment of lymph nodes
- ✓Investigation of thyroid nodules
In plain language
What this test helps you understand
Introduction The Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) Procedure with Reporting is a minimally invasive diagnostic technique used to extract cellular material from suspicious lumps or masses. This procedure is essential in oncology for the early detection and diagnosis of various cancers, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. By utilizing a thin needle, the procedure minimizes discomfort and recovery time, making it a preferred choice for many patients.
What the Test Measures FNAC is primarily used to detect and evaluate cellular abnormalities in tissues. It helps in identifying cancerous cells, benign tumors, and other pathological conditions. The test provides critical information that guides further diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.
Who Should Consider This Test This test is recommended for individuals who present with: - Unexplained lumps or masses in the body - Symptoms of potential malignancy, such as unexplained weight loss or persistent pain - Family history of cancer - Patients undergoing monitoring for previously diagnosed conditions If you have any of these symptoms or risk factors, consult your healthcare provider about the FNAC procedure.
Benefits of Taking the Test - Minimally invasive with a quick recovery time - Provides rapid results - Helps in early detection of malignancies - Guides treatment decisions based on accurate cellular diagnosis - Cost-effective diagnostic option
Understanding Your Results After the procedure, the collected FNAC slides will be analyzed by a pathologist. Results may indicate the presence of cancerous cells, benign conditions, or inconclusive findings. It is essential to discuss your results with your healthcare provider to understand the implications and potential next steps.
Pre-Test Instructions Please note that the FNAC procedure requires a doctor’s prescription. It is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning surgery, or traveling abroad, as these factors may affect your eligibility for the test.
Medical review status
Clinical review pending
A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.
Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →A simple process
What happens next?
You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.
Speak with us
We check the test and answer your questions before collection.
Give your sample
Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.
Understand your report
A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.
Choose your collection
Home collection or a lab visit
We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.
Home collection
Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.
Lab or hub visit
Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.
Ask about locations →Read your report
What common result terms mean
Questions people ask
Frequently asked questions
Collaboration
Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers
Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.
Hospitals & clinics
Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.
Doctors & specialists
LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.
Research institutions
Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.
Students & academic projects
Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.
Trust & transparency
Sources, standards & how this page is maintained
Standards & references
- ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
- ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
- LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
- ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress
Page provenance
- Last updated: September 27, 2026
- Medical review: not yet completed
- Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance
Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.
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