Biopsy

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To determine whether a growth is cancerous, a biopsy (tissue sample) is extracted for further testing. Biopsies are often used in diagnosing cancer when a mass that could be a tumor is found during a screening exam.

The biopsy sample can be analyzed physically under a microscope by a pathologist or lab technician, and will undergo chemical evaluation. A biopsy in which the entire suspicious body or tumor is removed may occur and is called an excisional biopsy. Biopsies are imaging guided by other procedures such as MRI, ultrasound or other methods, and can be performed by:

• Needle – A fine needle biopsy and a core needle biopsy are used to extract cells or a small core of tissue.
• Stereotactic – Computer and imaging technology are used to guide a biopsy needle to a precise spot where a tissue sample can be collected.
• Open or surgical – A sample of the tumor or growth, possibly itself in entirety, is taken by making a small incision in the skin.