Biopsy
A biopsy is the removal of cells or tissues for examination. The tissue or fluid is generally examined under a microscope by a pathologist. An incisional or core biopsy involves the removal of only a sample of tissue. An excisional biopsy involves the removal of an entire lump or suspicious area. A needle aspiration biopsy is the removal of a tissue sample or fluid using a needle.
Stories
Breast Biopsy
A lump was found on my left breast during my first mammogram at age 40. A sonogram confirmed the lump, and the doctor told me she wanted to do a biopsy, which I agreed to. The doctor used the sonogram to visualize the mass, and told me I would feel some pressure, then counted to 3 and I heard the loud snap. Read More
Julia, female, 39, New York
Mole (Dysplastic Nevus) Removal
The dermatologist saw a dark freckle he didn’t like the look of. He stuck me with a Novocain needle which did not hurt, just a fast prick, and then burned off the freckle. He put the freckle in a vial for testing. A week later I called, the nurse looked up my file, paused, and said she had to get the doctor. I almost fainted. Read More
Adrienne, female, 40, New York
Thyroid Biopsy
The specialist saw and felt and an unusual condition in the front of my neck and gave me an ultrasound of the thyroid, which showed a nodule on the left side of my thyroid. He then advised that we do a thyroid nodule biopsy. Read More
Harry, male, 69, Massachusetts
Thyroid Biopsy
During the exam the doctor felt a lump on my throat. He immediately did a needle biopsy, numbing the area before doing the biopsy. Read More
Bonnie, female, 52, California
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