biòpsies

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 collected sample allows pathologists to identify abnormal cells, determine their type, grade, and stage, and assess their characteristics, which is vital for guiding treatment decisions.

There are several types of biopsies, categorized by how the sample is obtained. An incisional biopsy removes a small part of a larger lesion, while an excisional biopsy removes the entire suspicious area. Needle biopsies, including fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and core needle biopsy, use a needle to extract cells or tissue. Endoscopic biopsies are taken during an endoscopy, where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the body. Other methods include shave biopsies, punch biopsies, and surgical biopsies, each chosen based on the location and nature of the tissue in question.

The procedure itself is generally safe, though risks like bleeding, infection, or pain at the biopsy site exist. The specific technique and potential complications depend on the type of biopsy performed and the body part being sampled. After the sample is collected, it is sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis. The results are then communicated to the referring physician, who discusses them with the patient and outlines the next steps, if any are needed.