A breast biopsy is a medical procedure that involves removing a small sample of breast tissue for detailed examination. This process is undertaken to investigate a suspicious area within the breast, such as a lump or an abnormality detected on imaging, with the primary goal of determining whether the cells are benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The information gathered from a biopsy is foundational for guiding any subsequent care or treatment decisions.
Performing the Biopsy
Breast biopsies are performed by radiologists, especially those specializing in interventional radiology, and surgeons. Radiologists frequently conduct minimally invasive needle biopsies using imaging guidance. This guidance, which can involve ultrasound, mammography (stereotactic), or MRI, allows them to accurately pinpoint the suspicious area and extract tissue samples.
Radiologists insert a needle through the skin to obtain tissue, ensuring the sample is representative of the abnormality. Surgeons also perform biopsies, particularly surgical biopsies, which involve making an incision to remove a tissue sample, or in some cases, the entire suspicious lump. The choice of professional and biopsy technique depends on the abnormality’s characteristics and location.
Analyzing the Biopsy Sample
After the tissue sample is collected, it is sent to a specialized laboratory for analysis by a pathologist. Pathologists are doctors who specialize in examining tissues and cells under a microscope to diagnose diseases. They study the biopsy sample to identify cell types, determine if cancer cells are present, and classify the specific type of breast cancer if malignant.
The pathologist’s examination also includes assessing characteristics such as the tumor’s grade (how aggressive it appears) and the presence of specific markers like hormone receptors. This information is compiled into a pathology report, which is sent to the patient’s referring doctor. The findings in this report are essential for confirming a diagnosis and informing subsequent treatment planning.
Guiding Your Breast Care
Other medical professionals guide a patient’s overall breast care journey. Primary care physicians (PCPs) or gynecologists often serve as the initial point of contact, identifying potential breast abnormalities during routine exams or in response to patient concerns. They are responsible for ordering initial imaging tests and referring patients to specialists for further evaluation, including a biopsy.
Once biopsy results are available, breast surgeons or oncologists discuss the findings with the patient, explaining the diagnosis and outlining potential treatment pathways. A medical oncologist specializes in systemic cancer treatments, while a breast surgical oncologist focuses on surgical interventions. This team-based approach ensures coordinated care, where various specialists collaborate to develop a personalized treatment plan and provide ongoing support and follow-up.