If a lump or mass is discovered after a mammogram or clinical examination a breast biopsy may be done.
Sometimes the first test done is a needle aspiration with a local anesthetic applied to the overlying skin.
Fluid is removed from the mass and examined under a microscope for abnormal cells.
If the mass is a cyst it will often collapse after thr fluid is removed.
If the mass does not collapse, if it appears solid or if laboratory analysis of the fluid is ambiguous a surgical biopsy may be necessary.
The area along with surrounding tissue is removed by making a small cut in the breast.
Sutures may be necessary to close the incision.
This incision is usually performed using only local anesthesia.
If the woman has a particularly large mass the doctor may recommend hospitalization for the biopsy.
What Is Breast Cancer
Stages Of Breast Cancer
What Are The Symptoms
How Is The Condition Evaluated
How Breast Cancer Is Treated
Who Is Likely To Develop Breast Cancer
Breast Biopsy
Benign Breast Lumps
Glossary Of Cancer Related Terms
Be A Survivor
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