ABSTRACT
A limited number of diagnostic sampling techniques are available for the study of lung tissues and cells. The rationale and approach for each depends on the given clinical circum stances, and the radiographic findings, and the pathological conditions being considered. A multidisciplinary approach assures the most cost-effective and accurate results. Commu nication and discussion between pulmonologist, radiologist, pathologist, and thoracic sur geon before sampling is advisable in most cases but absolutely required in others (e.g., open-lung biopsy). In this chapter, we review commonly used sampling procedures and guide the reader through effective specimen handling necessary to achieve diagnostic re sults (Table 1).
