No, a biopsy does not always mean complete removal. A biopsy is the removal of a small sample of cells or tissues from the body for examination under a microscope or further testing by a pathologist. The goal is to diagnose a condition, not necessarily to remove the entire affected area.
What Happens During a Biopsy?
A biopsy involves removing a small piece of tissue or a few cells. This sample is then sent to a laboratory where a pathologist examines it to identify abnormalities or diseases.
-
Types of Biopsies: There are many different types of biopsy procedures, depending on the location and type of tissue being sampled. Some examples include:
- Needle biopsy (a needle is used to extract a tissue sample)
- Incisional biopsy (a small piece of tissue is surgically removed)
- Excisional biopsy (the entire abnormal area is surgically removed – this is closer to complete removal)
-
Purpose: The primary purpose of a biopsy is diagnostic. It helps doctors determine the nature of a suspicious growth or lesion. It may or may not lead to further treatment, depending on the findings.
In short: While some biopsy procedures, like an excisional biopsy, involve removing the entire abnormal area, a biopsy in general only requires the removal of a sample for examination. The key difference lies in the extent of tissue removed. A biopsy sample can be tiny, while a complete removal involves a larger section or the whole affected area.
