What is a needle biopsy of the breast?
A needle biopsy of the breast is a way to remove cells or a sample of tissue from a lump or tumor for testing. There are 2 types of needle biopsy: fine needle aspiration and core biopsy. When a fine needle aspiration is done, a needle is inserted through your skin into the lump or area of concern to remove a sample of cells. The cells are placed on a slide and examined by the pathologist. For a core biopsy, a larger needle is used to remove a tubelike sample of tissue, about the size of a pencil lead, for the pathologist to examine. Your healthcare provider may do either of these procedures in the office setting. Or the biopsy may be done at a clinic or hospital by another specialist.
