LAB TEST
Breast biopsy - ultrasound
A breast biopsy is the removal of breast tissue to examine it for signs of breast cancer or other disorders. There are several types of breast biopsies, including stereotactic , ultrasound-guided, MRI-guided, and excisional breast biopsy . This article focuses on needle-based, ultrasound-guided breast biopsies. This procedure is usually done by a radiologist or surgeon.
How the Test is Performed
You are asked to undress from the waist up. You wear a robe that opens in the front. During the biopsy, you are awake. You lie on your back. The biopsy is done in the following way: The doctor cleans the area on your breast. Numbing medicine is injected. The doctor makes a very small cut on your breast over the area…
How to Prepare for the Test
The health care provider will ask about your medical history and may perform a manual breast exam. If you take blood thinning medicines (including aspirin, supplements, or herbs), ask your doctor whether you need to stop taking these before the biopsy. Tell your doctor if you may be pregnant. Do not use lotion,…
How the Test will Feel
When the numbing medicine is injected, it may sting a bit. During the procedure, you may feel slight discomfort or light pressure. After the test, the breast may be sore and tender to the touch for several days. You will be given instructions about what activities you can do, how to take care of your breast, and what…
Why the Test is Performed
An ultrasound-guided breast biopsy may be done to evaluate abnormal findings on a mammogram , breast ultrasound , or MRI. To determine whether someone has breast cancer, a biopsy must be done. Tissue from the abnormal area is removed and examined under a microscope.
Normal Results
A normal result means there is no sign of cancer or other breast problems. Your provider will let you know if and when you need a follow-up ultrasound, mammogram or other tests.
What Abnormal Results Mean
A biopsy can identify a number of breast conditions that are not cancer or precancer, including: Fibroadenoma (breast lump that usually isn't cancer) Fat necrosis Biopsy results may show abnormal conditions such as: Atypical ductal hyperplasia Atypical lobular hyperplasia Flat epithelial atypia Intraductal papilloma…
Risks
There is a slight chance of infection at the injection or incision site. Excessive bleeding is rare.
References
American College of Radiology website. ACR practice parameter for the performance of ultrasound-guided percutaneous breast interventional procedures. www.acr.org/-/media/ACR/Files/Practice-Parameters/us-guidedbreast.pdf . Updated 2021. Accessed April 5, 2023. Henry NL, Shah PD, Haider I, Freer PE, Jagsi R, Sabel MS.…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 11/03/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.