Biopsy
A biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the body for examination under a microscope to diagnose or rule out diseases. It is commonly performed to identify the presence of cancer, infections, inflammatory conditions, or other abnormalities that cannot be diagnosed solely through imaging or physical examination.
There are several types of biopsies, and the method used depends on the location of the tissue being examined and the specific condition being investigated:
Needle Biopsy: A thin, hollow needle is used to remove a small tissue sample. This can be done percutaneously (through the skin) or with the help of imaging guidance such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI for accuracy. Needle biopsies are often used for diagnosing tumors or masses in organs like the liver, breast, lungs, or kidneys.
- Endoscopic Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken during an endoscopic procedure, such as colonoscopy, bronchoscopy, or cystoscopy. The doctor uses an endoscope (a flexible tube with a camera) to visualize the area and obtain a tissue sample from the suspected abnormality.
Surgical Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may require a surgical procedure to remove a larger tissue sample or an entire tumor. This can be done through traditional surgery or minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy.
Skin Biopsy: A small portion of skin tissue is removed to diagnose skin conditions, such as suspicious moles or skin cancers. This can be done using a punch, excisional, or shave biopsy method.
The biopsy sample is then sent to a laboratory, where it is examined by a pathologist to identify any abnormalities. The pathologist may look for signs of cancer, infection, inflammation, or other conditions based on the tissue’s appearance.
Biopsies are generally safe procedures, but as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, or injury to surrounding tissues. The results of a biopsy help guide treatment decisions, making it a critical tool in diagnosing various conditions. The time it takes to get biopsy results depends on the complexity of the case but usually ranges from a few days to a week.
