Biopsy

A biopsy removes a small tissue sample for laboratory examination. Used to diagnose cancer, infections, and various inflammatory conditions. Types include core-needle biopsy (small needle), excisional biopsy (removes the entire abnormality), and incisional biopsy (samples part).

For Black patients, biopsy access and turnaround can be slower than for white patients on identical findings, contributing to later-stage cancer diagnosis. If a clinician identifies a suspicious finding, ask when the biopsy will be scheduled and what the result-turnaround timeline is.