Abstract :
Introduction: The CytoRich Red fixative system for red blood cell lysis in liquid based cytology technique
is quite effective in hemorrhagic cervical PAP smears. However, its role in fine needle aspiration cytology
needs to be explored.
Aims and Objectives: (1). Highlight the role of CytoRich Red fluid as fixative media. (2). To compare
CytoRich Red fixed smear with conventional smear. (3). To compare CytoRich Red fixed smear with liquid
based cytology (LBC) smear.
Material and Methods: Thirty hemorrhagic smears from breast (16 ) , thyroid (08), lymph node (04) and
soft tissue (02) lesions were included in the study. The fine needle aspirate was divided into two parts. First
part was used for conventional smears and CytoRich Red treated smears. An unstained smear was stored in
cold acetone for immunocytochemistry, which was applied on relevant cases. The second part was used for
Liquid-Based cytology (LBC). All smears were compared for cytomorphological features and background
material. The smears were classified into 3 groups based on the percentage of hemorrhage that is
25-50% and >50%. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS version 24. A p value of 0.05 was considered
as significant.
Results: Red blood cells were significantly reduced without hindering staining with a statistically
significant difference between background haemorrhage in conventional smears and CytoRich Red treated
smears (p value
smears and LBC. The Diagnostic utility of CytoRich Red treated smears was more than that of LBC alone
(p value < 0>
Conclusion: Cytorich red fixative system can be used in case of hemorrhagic fine needle aspiration slide
which provides a clear background without compromising the cellularity of the smears.
Keyword :
Hemorrhagic smears, CytoRich Red, Fine needle aspiration cytology, Liquid-Based cytology, Immunocytochemistry