Cytology and Fine-Needle Aspirates
Cytology is one of the most valuable diagnostic tools in veterinary dermatology. By examining skin and ear samples, we can quickly identify infections, inflammatory conditions, and some immune-mediated diseases, helping guide targeted treatment for your pet. For deeper lesions or masses, fine-needle aspirates (FNA) allow us to safely collect cells for microscopic evaluation, often with results available during the same consultation.
When Are Cytology and Fine-Needle Aspirates Recommended?
Cytology and fine-needle aspirates are commonly recommended for dogs and cats with skin, ear or nail conditions where infection, inflammation or abnormal tissue needs to be identified. These diagnostic tests are often used early in the assessment process to guide targeted and effective treatment.
These tests may be recommended when examination identifies or raises concern for:
- persistent itching, scratching or chewing at the skin in dogs or itching, scratching or overgrooming in cats
- recurrent ear problems or ear infections in dogs or ear problems, irritation or discharge in cats
- licking or chewing paws in dogs or paw, nail or claw conditions in cats
- ongoing skin redness, irritation or rash in dogs or scabs, sores or skin lesions in cats
- hair loss or coat changes in dogs or hair loss or overgrooming in cats
In many cases, these signs are associated with conditions such as:
- skin infections in dogs or skin infections in cats
- ear disease in dogs or ear disease in cats
- dog allergies or cat allergies (environmental, food or flea allergy)
- skin lumps, growths and tumours in dogs or skin lumps, growths and tumours in cats, where further investigation is required
Cytology and fine-needle aspirates allow for rapid identification of infection, inflammation or abnormal cells, helping guide immediate and targeted treatment decisions during your pet’s consultation.
What These In-House Diagnostic Tools Involve
When your pet’s skin or ears show persistent or unusual signs, we may recommend cytology or fine-needle aspirates (FNA) to investigate further.
We routinely use surface sampling techniques, including ear swabs, tape strips, and pustule smears, to assess the types of cells, bacteria, or yeasts present on your pet’s skin. These samples are examined in-house during the consultation, allowing for immediate diagnosis of common infections, inflammatory conditions, and some immune-mediated diseases.
For deeper skin lesions, masses, or enlarged lymph nodes, we may recommend a fine-needle aspirate (FNA). This minimally invasive technique uses a sterile needle to collect cells for microscopic evaluation. Our dermatologists are trained to assess tumours, infections, and unusual lesions, and can often provide results during the same consultation.
Performing these assessments in-house saves time, reduces the need for external testing, and supports prompt, targeted treatment decisions tailored to your pet.
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Key Benefits of Cytology and Fine-Needle Aspirates
Quick and Accurate Diagnosis
In-house assessment allows for rapid identification of infections, inflammation, or abnormal cells, supporting prompt treatment decisions.
Minimally Invasive
- Both cytology and FNA are gentle procedures that provide valuable diagnostic information with minimal discomfort to your pet.
Convenient and Cost-Effective
- Performing tests in-house can often reduce the need for external pathology, saving time and minimising costs, while still providing highly reliable results.
Ongoing Care and Management
After cytology or fine-needle aspirates, ongoing care and treatment is tailored to your pet’s results and clinical response.
Follow-up consultations may be scheduled to monitor response to treatment, healing, or changes in lesions.
Additional testing may be recommended if cells, infections, or inflammation persist or evolve.
Our team provides clear guidance for home care, including medications, topical treatments, and monitoring for new or recurring skin or ear lesions.
In some cases, repeat cytology or FNA may be performed to ensure treatment remains on track and adjustments are made promptly.
Our approach ensures your pet receives timely, targeted care, maximising comfort and supporting long-term skin and ear health.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is cytology or FNA painful for my pet?
Both procedures are minimally invasive. Most pets tolerate them well, and any discomfort is usually mild and brief. Your veterinarian takes care to minimise stress and ensure comfort throughout the process.
How quickly will we get results?
Many results are available during the same consultation, allowing your pet’s treatment plan to begin immediately.
More complex samples may require additional review by an external pathologist or laboratory, in which case our clinician will explain the expected timeframes.
Will my pet need sedation for FNA?
Sedation is usually not required for surface cytology, but may sometimes be recommended for FNA if the lesion is sensitive, deep, or in a location that makes collection difficult.
How often should these tests be repeated?
Repeat cytology or FNA may be advised if lesions persist, recur, or change, or to monitor response to treatment.
Pricing
Initial consultation: $425
Revisit consultation: $205
Cytology: $99
Intradermal allergy testing: $900
All other fees discussed during consultation
Referring Vets
If you are a veterinarian referring a patient for this service, please use our referral form or contact our team with relevant history, previous test results, current medications and treatment response.