Biopsy: How it Works, Types and Its Cost

Biopsy Test for Cancer

 A biopsy test is done to find out if you have cancer. A small sample of cells is removed from the body (usually from inside the mouth) using a needle. 

These cells are then examined under a microscope to check for any abnormal changes. If these cells do show abnormalities, they may be sent to a lab to be tested further.

1. Biopsy for Cancer

Biopsies are performed to diagnose certain types of cancers. Cancerous tumors may appear on any organ in the body, including the skin, breast, prostate, lung, ovaries, stomach, intestines, liver, bladder, kidney, bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, thyroid gland, brain, heart, blood vessels, or nervous system. 

Sometimes doctors take tissue samples from the surrounding normal tissue (non-cancerous) to check for changes caused by the cancer. 

There are different types of biopsies, depending upon what type of tissue is being studied. 

For example, a core needle biopsy is used to obtain a small sample of tissue from a tumor. In some cases, doctors use a fine needle aspiration (FNA) to remove fluid or cells from a cyst or mass.

 2. Is a biopsy test painful?

 Yes, a biopsy test can be uncomfortable. You might feel pain while your doctor takes the sample. 

Your doctor will numb the area where he/she removes the sample. In addition, you will likely receive medication to help you relax and reduce discomfort.

 3. What does the biopsy test tell my doctor?

 The biopsy test tells your doctor whether or not you have cancer. If the cells look normal, your doctor will probably tell you that you do not have cancer. 

However, if the cells appear abnormal, your doctor will need to perform additional tests to determine what type of cancer you have.

 4. Can I get a biopsy test at home?

 No, you cannot get a biopsy test yourself. Only your doctor can take samples of cells from inside your mouth.

 5. Biopsy Procedure

 During a biopsy procedure, the doctor inserts a thin tube called a needle into the area suspected of containing cancer. 

He/She removes a tiny amount of tissue and places it onto a glass slide. The doctor examines the tissue under a microscope to determine if it contains cancer cells.

 6. Cytology

 Cytology is the study of cells. It is done by looking at the microscopic structure of cells. Cytologists examine cells under a microscope to determine their function, size, shape, and number.

 7. Cancer Treatment

 Treatment for cancer varies according to the kind of cancer, the stage of cancer, and the age and general condition of the patient. 

Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.

Cost of Biopsy Test

 The cost of biopsy tests vary widely depending on where you live and what type of biopsy you need done. 

In the United States, the average cost ranges between $400-$500 for a simple biopsy and $1000-$1500 for a full-body biopsy. 

In Australia, it costs about $200-$300. In Canada, it costs around $250-$350. In India, it costs anywhere between INR 5000 - 7000 (USD 70 - 105).

 1. Collection Method

 There are two methods to collect amniotic fluid: suction and swabbing. Suctioning is done using a needle attached to a vacuum pump. 

Women who have had a previous cesarean section may want to avoid this method due to increased risk of tearing. 

Swabbing involves wiping the inside of the vagina with a cotton ball soaked in saline solution. There is no difference in effectiveness between the two collection methods.

 2. Number of Cells Taken

 The amount of cells taken depends on the gestational age at which the sample is collected. 

Prenatal samples are normally taken between 14 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. Samples taken earlier than 14 weeks of gestation are considered miscarriage samples. If the sample is taken after 24 weeks of gestation, it is called a late term abortion. 

Early term fetuses (28-32 weeks) have more cells than late term fetuses (33-36 weeks). Fetal cells are only viable for about 2-3 days. Therefore, women should take a sample before 32 weeks of gestation.

 3. Location of Lab

 Women should make sure the lab they choose offers rapid results. Many expectant mothers don't realize that labs that use PCR testing are not able to provide results the same day.

Other factors to consider include whether the lab accepts insurance and what kind of turnaround time they offer.

 4. Type of Test

 Prenatal screens look at the chromosomes of fetal DNA. Amniocentesis is the most commonly performed procedure and requires a small needle to be inserted into the uterus. 

CVS is less invasive and uses a thin wand instead. Both procedures carry risks including miscarriage and preterm labor. 

Ultrasound is a noninvasive screening test that looks at the fetus' heart rate, movement, and anatomy. These tests are often combined with blood work and genetic counseling.

 How Does A Biopsy Work?

 When taking a biopsy, the doctor first numbs the area using lidocaine cream or local anesthesia. 

Then they insert a needle into the area and remove some of the tissue. If the tissue looks abnormal, it is sent off to the lab for further testing.

 Why Do You Need To Get A Biopsy Done?

 There are many reasons why you would need to get a biopsy done. One of them includes diagnosing cancer. 

Another reason is to find out if you have a genetic disorder. There are several other reasons why you would want to get a biopsy.

 How Long Will The Results Take?

 Depending on how complicated the biopsy is, it could take days or weeks before the results are back. However, the majority of the time, it takes only a few hours.

 Are There Any Side Effects From Getting A Biopsy?

 Getting a biopsy isn't going to cause any serious side effects. Most people experience minor bruising and swelling after getting a biopsy. 

However, there are rare cases where people have experienced bleeding, infection, and even death.

 Where Can I Find More Information On Biopsies?

 You can find more information on biopsies at your local hospital or online. You can also visit the American Cancer Society website to learn more about biopsies.

Types of biopsy in cancer

1. Needle Biopsy

 This is a simple procedure where a needle is inserted into the tumor site and then removed. This method is quick and painless, but may not provide enough cells for testing.

 2. Fine-Needle Aspiration (FNA)

 A small amount of fluid is collected by inserting a thin needle directly into the mass. A syringe is attached to the needle to remove the liquid. If the sample is obtained correctly, it contains many cancer cells. However, this method does not collect enough material for testing.

 3. Core Biopsy

 The doctor inserts a hollow tube into the tumor site and removes a piece of tissue. This method collects a larger number of cells than FNA, however, it requires surgery and incisions.

 4. Incisional Biopsy

 Incisional biopsies are performed using scalpel blades and require stitches. This method provides the best results for diagnosing certain types of cancers.

 5. Excisional Biopsy

 Excisional biopsies involve cutting out a portion of the tumor and removing it along with some surrounding healthy skin. This method is the most invasive.

 6. Tissue Acquisition

 Tissue acquisition involves taking a section of the tumor and freezing it until the time of analysis. This method is often used for research purposes only.

 7. Lymph Node Biopsy

 Lymph nodes are located throughout the body and are involved in immune system function. Lymph node biopsies are used to diagnose lymphoma and test for HIV infection. Lymph node biopsy is a surgical procedure.