Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) Practice Exam

What type of specimens provide cytologic diagnostic confirmation of malignancy when positive?

1. Blood tests

2. Needle aspiration of tumor

3. Biopsy

4. Surgical excision

The correct answer is: Needle aspiration of tumor

Needle aspiration of a tumor is a highly effective method for obtaining cytologic specimens that can confirm the presence of malignancy. This technique involves using a thin needle to draw cells from a tumor mass, which are then examined under a microscope. If cancer cells are present in the sample, it provides a quick and accurate diagnosis of malignancy. The other methods, while useful in the diagnostic process, do not specifically focus on cytologic analysis: - Blood tests primarily assess various components of the blood and may indicate the presence of cancer indirectly through markers but do not provide direct confirmation of malignancy at the cellular level. - Biopsy generally refers to obtaining tissue samples rather than just cells, which often provides more comprehensive diagnostic information, including tumor architecture, but is not solely cytologic. - Surgical excision involves removing a larger section of tissue for examination. Like a biopsy, it provides detailed tissue diagnosis but is not solely a cytologic procedure. It also requires more invasive intervention than needle aspiration. In summary, needle aspiration stands out for providing direct cytological evidence of malignancy quickly and efficiently when positive.