Introduction: Breast lump is one of the most common surgical problems in female. Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and histopathology are two investigational tools often used to differentiate malignant breast lump from benign one. The aim of present study was to find out the sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and compare it to histopathology in breast lump. Material and Method: Fifty patients who presented with clinically palpable breast lump at the department of surgery, Bombay Hospital India during the year 2005- 2007 were included. All patients underwent FNAC by disposable fine needle, 21-25 gauges, outside diameter 1.2 to 1.6mm and 30-50mm in length , the detailed clinical examination and mammography were done before FNAC and 49 patients underwent different operative procedures like excision biopsy, frozen section and MRM. Histopathological examination was done on the specimen. The diagnosis was made by the pathology department of Bombay Hospital. Results: Out of fifty cases in which FNAC were done, 20 were diagnosed with benign lesions, 27 as malignant lesions and 3 as suspicious. Out of 49 patients in which histopathology were done 28 patients had infiltrating ductal carcinoma, and 12 patients had fibroadenoma. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of FNAC were 81%, 100%, 100%, 72% respectively. Conclusion: FNAC and histopathology are 100% specific in diagnosing malignant breast lesion. Although histopathology   appears more sensitive than FNAC the later procedure is safe, quick and economical. 

Keywords: Breast Lump; FNAC; Histopathology; Breast Lump