Tru-cut needle biopsy of abdominal tumors in children: A safe and diagnostic procedure

Abstract

Fifteen children with inoperable abdominal malignancies underwent percutaneous biopsy. Both fine needle aspiration (FNA) and core biopsies using a cutting needle were obtained. In 5 of the 15 specimens obtained by FNA, the material obtained showed malignant cells but did not allow a precise diagnosis to be made. In a sixth case, the diagnosis made on a FNA specimen proved to be incorrect. In contrast, all 15 specimens obtained with a cutting needle were diagnostic. No complications were observed following these procedures. Core biopsies appear to be a safe and reliable means of obtaining tissue for diagnosis in children with inoperable solid abdominal masses.