Various Types of Biopsy

There are four common methods or types of biopsy:

1. Fine needle aspiration biopsy or FNAB uses a very thin needle to collect fluid or cells directly from the mass. Frequently, the doctor can perform this procedure while feeling the lump to help guide the needle. If a mass was seen on a mammogram, but the lump cannot be felt easily, the physician may use ultrasound or computer-guided imaging to help locate the mass and guide the position of the needle. Use of computer-guided imaging to trace the mass and help guide the position of the needle is called stereotactic needle biopsy.

2.Core needle biopsy - which uses a larger needle to remove a minute cylinder of tissue from the lump and send it to a laboratory for further analysis under the microscope.

3.Incisional biopsy - which involves surgical elimination of just a portion of the mass, which is sent to a laboratory for further analysis under the microscope.

4.Excisional biopsy - which involves surgical removal of the whole mass, which is sent to a laboratory for further analysis under the microscope.