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Biopsy
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Diagnostic Tests

Biopsy

A biopsy removes cells or tissue for microscopic examination, often providing the definitive diagnosis of cancer.

Overview

A biopsy is a medical procedure that extracts cells or tissue from the body. A doctor known as a pathologist examines the sample under a microscope to assess for damage or disease, and may perform additional laboratory tests on it.

Why Biopsies Are Performed

Biopsies are the only test that can definitively confirm whether a suspicious area is cancerous. They are also used for many other diagnostic reasons, such as evaluating inflammatory conditions, infections, or other non‑cancerous abnormalities.

Types of Biopsies

  • Needle biopsy: Tissue is removed with a needle that passes through the skin to the target site.
  • Surgical biopsy: Requires an incision or operation to obtain a larger tissue sample.
  • Other specialized biopsies may be performed depending on the organ or location involved.

Procedure Basics

Biopsies can be performed on virtually any part of the body. The specific technique—needle, surgical, or another method—depends on the location of the lesion, its size, and the clinical question being addressed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most standard needle biopsies are read within 2‑5 business days, but complex cases that require special stains, molecular testing, or consultation with a multidisciplinary team can take 1‑2 weeks or longer. Delays may also occur if the lab is busy, if additional tissue is needed, or if the sample is sent to an outside reference lab for specialized analysis.
The main risks are bleeding, bruising, infection, and rarely, injury to nearby structures. To minimize these, your doctor will review your medication list (especially blood thinners), use sterile technique, apply firm pressure after needle removal, and give you clear instructions on wound care and signs of infection to watch for.
Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24‑48 hours, then gently wash with mild soap and pat dry. Apply a sterile bandage if advised, and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity involving that area for at least 24‑48 hours. Watch for increasing redness, swelling, drainage, or fever—these could signal infection and require prompt medical attention.
Yes, many physicians ask patients to hold anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, apixaban, clopidogrel) and sometimes aspirin for 5‑7 days before a needle biopsy to lower bleeding risk. Always discuss your full medication list with the ordering clinician; they may coordinate with your prescribing doctor to pause or adjust doses safely.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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