Biopsy

A biopsy is the removal of some cells or tissue, fluids or growths for examination. The sample can be taken from any part of your body. It’s sent to a laboratory for testing and is looked at under a microscope.

What is a Biopsy? #

• A biopsy is the removal of some cells or tissue, fluids or growths for examination.

• The sample can be taken from any part of your body.

• It’s sent to a laboratory for testing and is looked at under a microscope.

Why is a Biopsy taken? #

Biopsies are most often done to either confirm or rule out a suspicion of cancer. However, biopsies are also performed to diagnosis other causes of your symptoms including:

• Inflammatory disorders, such as in the kidney (nephritis) or the liver (hepatitis).

• Infections, such as tuberculosis.

• Immune disorders, such as chronic pancreatitis.

Types of Biopsy #

Shave Biopsy #

This biopsy uses a razor to scrape away a small sample of cells on the surface of your skin. This method is often used to collect part of a skin growth, sore or mole.

Punch Biopsy #

This biopsy uses a special device to punch a hole in the skin to remove all or most of a lesion deep in the skin. You may need stitches.

Excisional or incisional Biopsies #

These skin biopsies remove all (excisional) or part of a lesion (incisional) to test or treat it. A scalpel is used to perform the biopsy. You will need stitches.

Needle Biopsy #

• The needle used to gather tissue is inserted through your skin and is sometimes guided by a CT scan or ultrasound (if it can’t be felt).

• A fine-needle aspiration (also called a fine-needle biopsy) is attached to a syringe.

• This method is used to remove a small sample of tissue from a tumor or fluid.

• A core needle biopsy is used to remove larger tissue samples.

• This method is commonly used to check breast biopsies.

Endoscopic or laparoscopic Biopsy #

• These biopsies use an endoscope or laparoscope to see inside your body.

• With both of these methods, a small cut is made in your skin and an instrument is inserted.

• An endoscope is a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the tip, along with a cutting tool to remove your sample.

• A laparoscope is a slightly different scope.

Excisional or incisional Biopsy #

For these open biopsies, a surgeon cuts into your body and the entire tumor is removed (excisional biopsy) or a part of the tumor is removed (incisional biopsy) to test or treat it.

Perioperative Biopsy #

• This biopsy is done while you’re having another procedure.

• Your tissue will be removed and tested right away.

• Results will come in soon after the procedure so if you need treatment, it can start immediately.

Bone marrow Biopsy #

This biopsy is performed to get a closer look at your blood and rule out specific bone marrow disorders or cancers.

How do you prepare for a biopsy? #

Depending on the biopsy type, your healthcare provider might make certain suggestions. Your provider might suggest that you:

• Temporarily stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin or blood thinners.

• Don’t eat or drink before the procedure.

Your healthcare provider will also want to know:

• All medications you take, including herbal supplements, vitamins and over-the-counter products.

• Any allergies you have, including latex, which is in the gloves worn by your healthcare team who will perform your biopsy.

• Any current illnesses/medical conditions.

• If there’s any chance you’re pregnant.

How to prepare for a Biopsy during pregnancy? #

• If you’re pregnant, you might have to take extra precautions before having a biopsy.

• It depends on the reason, the type of biopsy and the part of your body where it’s done.

• Be sure to talk with your provider about any questions or concerns you have about the impact of a biopsy on the health of you and your baby.

Risks of Biopsy #

Risks include:

• Bleeding.

• Infection.

• Scarring.