Sensitivity of cytology in liver tumor biopsy and its significance in the prompt clinical diagnosis of non-hepatocellular carcinoma.

Cytology of liver tumor biopsy has high sensitivity for malignancy, especially in non-HCC tumors. On-site cytology can contribute to the prompt clinical diagnosis of non-HCC tumors when combined with clinical information. This approach may be a reassuring modality for patients with severely advanced cancers requiring prompt clinical diagnosis and quick initiation of treatment owing to their deteriorating health.