Introduction: Liquid based cytology (LBC) has played a pivotal role in exfoliative cytology. However it can be implemented in Fine needle aspiration (FNA) samples. Automated techniques have been widely used, but limited due to cost and availability. Aim: The objective of the study was to assess the diagnostic efficacy of Manual LBC in FNAC samples. Methods: In this prospective study, a total of 60 FNA samples from various anatomical sites were evaluated. Smears were made from conventional preparation (CP) and manual LBC (MLBC) preparation. Both CP and MLBC preparations were compared for cellularity, background, monolayers, cell architecture, cytoplasmic and nuclear details by a semiquantitative scoring system. P<0.005 was considered statistically significant. Results: Diagnostic accuracy was better in MLBC to CP in view of absence of blood and debris, presence of monolayers and preservation of nuclear and cytoplasmic details. However, with regard to cellularity, informative background and cell architecture there was no statistical significance. Conclusion MLBC performed on FNA samples can be safe, cost effective promising diagnostic technique in combination with CP to achieve high diagnostic yield.

Keywords: MLBC; CP; FNA Samples.