Biopsy Overview and Types

Biopsy Overview

• A biopsy is a medical procedure to collect a tissue sample for examination by a pathologist, a doctor specializing in bodily tissues and fluids.
• It helps diagnose diseases, both cancerous and non-cancerous.
• The term "biopsy" comes from Greek words meaning "to view life".

Biopsy Types

• Scrape biopsy: Removes surface cells, common in Pap smears.
• Punch biopsy: Uses a round knife to remove a tissue disk, often for skin cancer.
• Needle biopsy: Extracts a sample using a needle.
  • Core biopsy: Uses a wider needle.
  • Fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB): Uses a thin needle, often only requiring a consent form and gown change.
• Stereotactic biopsy: Uses 3D imaging to guide sample collection from located abnormalities, common in breast and brain biopsies.
• Colposcopic biopsy: Uses a colposcope to examine the cervix after an abnormal Pap smear.
• Endoscopic biopsy: Uses an endoscope to collect samples from internal areas (intestines, colon, lungs).

Biopsy Uses

• Cancer diagnosis: Determines if a growth is cancerous or not.
• Gastric issues: Diagnoses stomach pain causes, such as inflammation or Helicobacter pylori.
• Lung health: Identifies lung masses as cancerous or benign.
• Breast health: Determines if breast tissue abnormalities are benign or cancerous.

Biopsy Analysis and Results

• Pathologists examine the tissue sample under a microscope.
• They determine if the sample is malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous).
• They assess cancer aggressiveness and stage if malignant, to guide treatment.
• A detailed report is sent to the ordering doctor.
• Result time varies, depending on complexity. Simple results may be available within 12 days, while complex cases can take longer; delays may be due to needed additional tests or second opinions.

Biopsy Procedure Expectations

• Preparation: Varies by biopsy type. Some require fasting, medication discussion, or a consent form and gown change (FNAB).
• Procedure Duration and Anesthesia: Most are outpatient procedures; more extensive procedures may need general anesthesia and overnight stay. Anesthesia type varies, from local for FNAB to general for surgical biopsies.
• Pain: Anesthesia minimizes pain; some procedures may have a sharp pinch followed by possible soreness for a few days.
• Safety: Biopsies are generally safe with low risks of infection and bleeding. Rare cases of excessive bleeding may require further intervention; early cancer detection through biopsy improves survival rates.