Biopsy
Understanding a Biopsy and How to Prepare for It
What is a Biopsy?
A biopsy is a medical procedure used for diagnosis, involving the removal of a small sample of body tissue so that it can be examined under a microscope.
- Types of Biopsies:
- Needle Biopsy: This is the simplest type of biopsy, where a doctor inserts a very thin, hollow needle through the skin to collect a sample of cells, and sometimes fluids, for examination.
- Image-Guided Needle Biopsy: In this method, the doctor uses equipment to facilitate sample collection, which may include:
- Ultrasound.Fluoroscopy).
- Fluoroscopy.CT).
- Computed Tomography (CT).
- X-rays. (MRI).
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
- Surgical Biopsy (Excisional): This type involves surgically removing a sample of tissue.
- Skin Biopsy: This can be performed by scraping the skin layer to be examined or making a small puncture in the skin to take a sample.
- Endoscopic Biopsy: An endoscope is a thin, illuminated, flexible tube equipped with a camera that allows the doctorto view the inside of the body, such as the esophagus, stomach, bladder, joints, and other body parts.
Bone Marrow Biopsy: Bone marrow is the soft, liquid tissue inside bones. This type involves collecting a sample of the liquid using a needle, often taken from the pelvic bone.
When is a Biopsy Performed?
It is conducted to check for any functional disorders, such as kidney or liver problems, or other issues like swelling in a specific organ.
- Examples of Conditions Where a Biopsy Might be Performed:.
- Cancer.
- Hepatitis orNephritis..
- Infections such as tuberculosis.
Skin diseases.
How to Prepare for a Biopsy?
- The preparation depends on several factors, including the type of biopsy to be conducted. Ask your doctor if there are specific instructions you need to follow before the procedure, but generally:
- Your doctor may request that you temporarily stop taking any medication that could increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
- Inform the doctor about any medications you are taking.
