Biopsy (Without Reporting) – Procedure Overview

Biopsy (Without Reporting) – Procedure Overview

A biopsy is a minimally invasive medical procedure in which a small tissue sample is collected from a suspected abnormal area to examine it under a microscope. It is used to diagnose infections, inflammatory conditions, and cancerous growths.

1. Why is a Biopsy Done?

A biopsy is performed when there is:
✅ A suspicious lump, lesion, or mass
✅ Abnormal imaging findings (e.g., on ultrasound, CT, or MRI)
✅ Chronic, unexplained inflammation or infection
✅ Suspected cancer or pre-cancerous changes

2. Types of Biopsy

📌 Based on Collection Method:

🔹 Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy (FNAB/FNAC) – Uses a thin needle to withdraw cells.
🔹 Core Needle Biopsy (CNB) – Uses a thicker needle for tissue samples.
🔹 Incisional Biopsy – Removes a part of the abnormal tissue.
🔹 Excisional Biopsy – Removes the entire lesion/mass.
🔹 Punch Biopsy – Uses a circular tool to remove a small skin sample.
🔹 Endoscopic Biopsy – Tissue collected via a scope (e.g., stomach, intestines, lungs).

📌 Common Sites for Biopsy:
✔ Breast (for lumps)
✔ Thyroid (for nodules)
✔ Lymph Nodes (for infections or cancer)
✔ Liver (for hepatitis, cirrhosis, or tumors)
✔ Skin (for lesions, rashes, or melanoma)
✔ Lung (for nodules or chronic lung disease)
✔ Bone Marrow (for blood disorders or leukemia)

3. Biopsy Procedure

🔹 Preparation:

• No fasting required for most biopsies (except liver/stomach)

• Local anesthesia may be used for pain relief

🔹 Procedure Steps:
1️⃣ Skin is cleaned and sterilized
2️⃣ Local anesthesia (if needed) is given
3️⃣ Needle or scalpel is used to remove the sample
4️⃣ Pressure is applied to stop bleeding
5️⃣ Small dressing/bandage is placed over the biopsy site

📌 The entire process takes 10-30 minutes, depending on the site.

4. Post-Biopsy Care

✅ Keep the area clean & dry for 24 hours
✅ Avoid heavy lifting or exercise for a few days (if deep biopsy)
✅ Mild pain, bruising, or swelling is normal
✅ Report any excessive bleeding, fever, or infection signs to the doctor

5. Next Steps After Biopsy

🔹 The sample is sent to a pathology lab for analysis
🔹 Results take 3-7 days, depending on the type of biopsy
🔹 Further treatment depends on the findings

Is Biopsy Safe?

✅ Yes, it is a routine, low-risk procedure
✅ Complications like bleeding or infection are rare