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🔋college physics i – introduction review

Biopsy

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

A biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the body for examination and analysis. It is a crucial diagnostic tool used in the context of medical imaging and diagnostics to help identify the presence and nature of various health conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Biopsies are commonly used to diagnose conditions such as cancer, infections, and inflammatory disorders by examining the collected tissue samples under a microscope.
  2. The type of biopsy performed depends on the location and size of the target area, as well as the specific information needed for diagnosis.
  3. Imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI are often used to guide the biopsy needle to the correct location and ensure an accurate sample is obtained.
  4. Biopsies are generally considered safe procedures, but there is a small risk of complications such as bleeding, infection, or damage to surrounding tissues.
  5. The results of a biopsy can provide valuable information to healthcare providers, helping them develop an appropriate treatment plan for the patient.

Review Questions

  • Explain the role of biopsies in the context of medical diagnostics and imaging.
    • Biopsies are a critical diagnostic tool in the field of medical diagnostics and imaging. They allow healthcare providers to obtain a small sample of tissue from a suspicious area within the body, which can then be analyzed under a microscope to identify the presence and characteristics of various health conditions, such as cancer, infections, or inflammatory disorders. The information gathered from a biopsy can help guide the diagnosis and inform the development of an appropriate treatment plan for the patient.
  • Describe the different types of biopsy procedures and how they are selected based on the specific needs of the patient.
    • There are several different types of biopsy procedures, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) uses a thin needle to extract a sample of cells or fluid, while core needle biopsies remove a small cylinder of tissue. Surgical biopsies involve making a small incision to remove a larger sample of tissue. The type of biopsy performed is typically chosen based on the location and size of the target area, as well as the specific information needed for diagnosis. Imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI are often used to guide the biopsy needle and ensure an accurate sample is obtained.
  • Analyze the potential risks and benefits associated with undergoing a biopsy procedure, and explain how healthcare providers work to minimize the risks while maximizing the diagnostic value of the procedure.
    • Biopsies are generally considered safe procedures, but there are some potential risks, such as bleeding, infection, or damage to surrounding tissues. Healthcare providers work to minimize these risks by carefully selecting the appropriate type of biopsy, using imaging guidance to ensure accurate sample collection, and closely monitoring the patient before, during, and after the procedure. However, the potential benefits of a biopsy often outweigh the risks, as the information obtained can be crucial in diagnosing and treating various health conditions. By providing valuable insights into the nature and characteristics of a suspected condition, biopsies play a vital role in the overall process of medical diagnostics and imaging, ultimately leading to more informed and effective patient care.