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
Skin Biopsy/Mole Removal
I went to the doctor because I was concerned about what looked like a blister on my chest that wouldn’t go away. The doctor looked at it but wasn’t concerned. But then he saw a dark freckle he didn’t like the look of. Read More
Adrienne, female, 40, New York
Skin Biopsy/Mole Removal
I had a suspicious looking mole on my thigh; the mole was particularly dark. The doctor looked at the mole and said it looked "interesting." He recommended doing a biopsy. Read More
Ken, male, 42, Massachusetts
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
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