No, a biopsy doesn't always mean complete removal. A biopsy is the removal of a sample of cells or tissues for examination under a microscope or through other laboratory tests. The amount removed varies greatly depending on the type of biopsy and the location.
Understanding Biopsy Procedures
A biopsy involves taking a small piece or sample of suspicious tissue or cells. This sample is then sent to a pathologist for detailed examination to help diagnose a condition, often a disease such as cancer. The key here is that it's a sample, not necessarily the entire affected area.
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Types of biopsies: There are numerous types of biopsies, each involving different methods and amounts of tissue removed. Some examples include:
- Needle biopsy: A thin needle is used to extract a small tissue sample.
- Incisional biopsy: A small incision is made to remove a piece of tissue.
- Excisional biopsy: The entire abnormal area is surgically removed. This is the closest to complete removal.
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Purpose of a biopsy: A biopsy's primary goal is to obtain a tissue sample for diagnosis, not necessarily to remove the entire affected area. The extent of removal depends entirely on the type of biopsy and the clinical situation. Complete removal might be a separate procedure following a diagnostic biopsy if needed.
The provided reference clarifies that a biopsy is "The removal of cells or tissues for examination by a pathologist". This highlights the removal aspect but emphasizes the examination purpose, implying that complete removal isn't always the goal.
