Fine-needle aspiration of the thyroid: technique and terminology.

Fine-needle aspiration of the thyroid is a relatively low-cost procedure that can provide an accurate diagnosis rapidly. Success of fine-needle aspiration requires an adequate sample, obtained by mastering the technique. The literature emphasizes the importance of having an experienced cytopathologist interpreting the smears. The author believes that more emphasis has to be placed on mastering this deceptively simple technique. The author shares technical hints learned over 30 years.