biopsiin

A biopsy is a medical procedure that involves taking a small sample of tissue or cells from the body for examination under a microscope. This examination is crucial for diagnosing various conditions, most notably cancer, but also infections, inflammatory diseases, and other abnormalities. The sample is typically analyzed by a pathologist, who determines whether the cells are normal, abnormal, or cancerous.

There are several types of biopsies, each suited to different situations. An incisional biopsy removes a part of a suspicious lump or area. An excisional biopsy removes the entire lump or area. A needle biopsy uses a hollow needle to withdraw fluid or a small piece of tissue. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) uses a thin needle to collect cells, while a core needle biopsy uses a larger needle to obtain a cylinder of tissue. Endoscopic biopsies are performed during procedures like colonoscopies or gastroscopies, where a tiny sample is taken from the lining of an organ. Skin biopsies are common for evaluating moles or other skin lesions.

The procedure's invasiveness varies depending on the type of biopsy, from a simple needle prick to a minor surgical procedure. Local anesthesia is often used to minimize discomfort. After the sample is collected, it is sent to a laboratory for processing and analysis. The results of a biopsy are vital for determining the appropriate course of treatment and can provide definitive diagnostic information when other tests are inconclusive.