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Breast Biopsy
About this test
A breast biopsy
removes a sample of breast tissue that is looked at under a microscope to check
for
breast cancer. A breast biopsy is usually done to
check a lump found during a breast examination or a suspicious area found on a
mammogram,
ultrasound, or
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). See a picture of the
female breast 
.
There are several ways to do a breast biopsy. The sample of breast tissue will be looked at under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
- Fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Your doctor inserts a thin needle into a lump and removes a sample of cells or fluid.
- Core needle biopsy. Your doctor inserts a needle with a special tip and removes a sample of breast tissue about the size of a grain of rice.
- Vacuum-assisted core biopsy. This is done with a probe that uses a gentle vacuum to remove a small sample of breast tissue. The single small cut doesn't require stitches and leaves a very small scar.
- Open (surgical) biopsy. Your doctor will make a small cut in the skin and breast tissue to remove part or all of a lump. This may be done as a first step to check a lump or if a needle biopsy doesn't provide enough information.
If needed, your doctor may use ultrasound or MRI to guide the biopsy needle. Or your doctor may use a computer to locate the exact spot for the biopsy sample from mammograms that have been taken from two angles (stereotactic needle biopsy). A fine wire, clip, or marker also may be used to mark the site.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: March 29, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine C. Dale Mercer, MD, FRCSC, FACS - General Surgery | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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