Why is this procedure done?
A biopsy looks at cells that are not normal. This is to see if the cells are from an infection or swelling. The doctor may be looking for cancer or other tumors. The doctor may be looking for other health problems. ‚
A needle biopsy of the breast is done to look at an abnormal area. It may be done if you have: ‚
- A lump
- Areas that are thicker than other places in the breast
- Nipple area that has changed or looks different
- Leaking or discharge from the nipple
- Breast ultrasound or mammogram results that are not normal
What will the results be?
The biopsy may help your doctor decide what kind of problem you are having with your breast. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
What happens during the procedure?
- The doctor will clean your skin and give you a numbing drug.
- The doctor will put a hollow needle into the lump or area of fluid. This will let your doctor get a sample to send to the lab. This is called a fine needle aspiration. Your doctor may use ultrasound or some other imaging tool to help find the best spot for the biopsy. The doctor may need to make a small cut to get the tissue for the biopsy.
- Sometimes, the doctor will leave a tiny piece of metal in your breast where the biopsy was taken. This will show up on ultrasounds and x-rays. You will not be able to feel it and it should not cause you any problems.
- This process may be done more than one time in different parts of your breast.
- The procedure will take 20 to 60 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- The staff applies pressure to stop any bleeding. They also cover the skin with a clean bandage.
- Stitches may be needed to close some cut sites.
- You can go home right after the test.
- You may feel pain or soreness after the test.
- You may not need drugs for pain, but ask your doctor what you may take.
- Ask your doctor when the results of the biopsy will be available. If you have stitches, ask your doctor when they will be removed.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Fight an infection
What problems could happen?
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Bruising
Where can I learn more?
American Cancer Society ‚
http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/BreastCancer/DetailedGuide/breast-cancer-diagnosis ‚
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality ‚
http://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/index.cfm/search-for-guides-reviews-and-reports/?pageaction=displayproduct&productID=407 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚