Aim: The ThinPrep Processor has gained popularity as a collection and preparation technique for fine needle aspiration cytology in addition to Papanicolaou smear test. The aim of this study was to compare the various cytologic features of ThinPrep and conventional smear in head and neck masses.

Material and Methods: We reviewed 71 consecutive fine needle aspiration cytology specimens and the conventional smear and ThinPrep slides diagnosed without knowledge of histopathologic diagnosis. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA test on SPSS program.

Results: There was no statistical difference between the two groups as regard to the presence of monolayer cells, cell architecture, and nuclear details (p>0.05). Cellularity, informative background and cytoplasmic details were statistically significant in conventional smear group (p<0.05). However, in ThinPrep preparations there were no blood and necrosis masking the findings (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Combined use of conventional smear and ThinPrep preparation provides the best results for fine needle aspiration cytology.