What is Biopsy? | Biopsy Meaning
A biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from a part of the body to be examined under a microscope. The purpose of a biopsy is to help diagnose the presence, nature, and extent of diseases or conditions, especially those that involve abnormalities or changes in the body's tissues. Biopsies are commonly performed to investigate suspected cancers, infections, inflammatory diseases, and other medical conditions.
There are several types of biopsies, and the choice of the method depends on the location of the tissue to be sampled and the suspected condition.
Here are some common types of biopsies:
1. Needle Biopsy: A thin, hollow needle is used to extract a small sample of tissue. This type of biopsy is often used for tumors or lumps that can be felt under the skin or for organs like the liver or prostate.
2. Excisional Biopsy: The entire suspicious area or lump is removed for examination. This is often done when the size of the sample is important for accurate diagnosis.
3. Incisional Biopsy: Only a portion of the abnormal tissue is removed for examination. This is common when removing the entire mass is not practical.
4. Endoscopic Biopsy: An endoscope, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end, is used to visualize and biopsy internal organs or structures. Examples include gastrointestinal endoscopy and bronchoscopy.
5. Bone Marrow Biopsy: A sample of bone marrow is removed, typically from the hip bone, to assess blood cell production and screen for certain blood disorders.
Biopsy results provide valuable information to physicians about the nature of a disease, its stage, and the best course of treatment. The analysis of the tissue sample by a pathologist helps in making accurate diagnoses and guiding appropriate medical interventions.
