Fine-needle aspiration cytology and scrape cytology of conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma: Report of a rare case

The utility of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in the diagnosis of conjunctival tumor is not well-described in the literature. Here, we report a case of conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the left eye in a 47 year old man. The case was initially diagnosed by FNAC using 24-gauge needle fitted in a 10 ml syringe. Scrape cytology was also done after FNAC. Smears from fine needle aspirates show malignant squamous epithelial cells arranged in aggregates. Intracellular keratin was discernible. Scrape cytology showed similar type of cytomorphological features. A cytodiagnosis of ocular surface squamous neoplasia favoring SCC was made and biopsy was suggested for confirmatory diagnosis. Surgical excision of the tumor was done and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of SCC.