Introduction
A biopsy is a medical procedure that involves taking a small sample of tissue from the body for examination under a microscope. This tissue sample can be taken from almost anywhere in the body, including the skin, organs, bones, and even the brain.
Biopsies are performed for a variety of reasons, but the most common reason is to diagnose a disease or condition. For example, a biopsy may be performed to determine if a lump is cancerous, to identify the cause of an infection, or to evaluate the severity of an inflammatory disease.
What Happens During a Biopsy?
The specific steps involved in a biopsy will vary depending on the location of the tissue being sampled and the type of biopsy being performed. However, in general, the following steps are involved:
- Numbing the area: A local anesthetic is usually injected into the area to numb it.
- Making an incision: If necessary, a small incision will be made in the skin to access the tissue being sampled.
- Taking the sample: A variety of tools can be used to take the tissue sample, including a needle, scalpel, or punch.
- Closing the incision: If an incision was made, it will be closed with stitches or steri-strips.
What Can a Biopsy Reveal?
A biopsy can reveal a great deal of information about the health of the tissue that was sampled. For example, a biopsy can show:
- Whether the tissue is cancerous or benign
- The type of cancer, if present
- The stage of cancer, if present
- The presence of infection
- The cause of inflammation
- The effectiveness of a particular treatment
After the Biopsy
After the biopsy, you may experience some mild discomfort, such as soreness, bruising, or swelling. These side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. You should contact your doctor if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.
The results of your biopsy will be available in a few days to a week. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and explain what they mean for your health.
