Why Are Biopsies Done?

Biopsies are procedures that involve taking of a tissue sample from some part of the body that is affected in some way and having it examined under a microscope. The examination is done with the intention to see if any abnormal chemicals or abnormal cells are found in the tissue. Biopsies are actually performed for a number of reasons including to diagnose cancer. A doctor generally prescribes a biopsy when a lump is felt under the skin for instance in the breast. Biopsies are also done to ascertain the reason why a particular organ is inflamed. This is especially true in the case of the liver or the kidneys.
The different types of biopsies include punch biopsies where a skin sample is taken to determine results; needle biopsies are those that involve a needle being inserted into different organs; endoscopic biopsies where a thin telescopic instrument is used; Excisional biopsies where the entire lump is removed for the sake of analysis and finally per-operative biopsies.

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