Search

The Online Encyclopedia and Dictionary

 
     
 

Encyclopedia

Dictionary

Quotes

 

Biopsy

A biopsy (in Greek: bios = life and opsy = look/appearance) is a medical test involving the removal of cells or tissues for examination. The tissue is often examined under a microscope and can also be analyzed chemically (for example, using PCR techniques).

When only a sample of tissue is removed, the procedure is called an incisional biopsy or core biopsy . When an entire lump or suspicious area is removed, the procedure is called an excisional biopsy . When a sample of tissue or fluid is removed with a needle, the procedure is called a needle biopsy or fine-needle aspiration .

See also: pathology, autopsy

Last updated: 05-10-2005 03:38:29
The contents of this article are licensed from Wikipedia.org under the GNU Free Documentation License. How to see transparent copy