Biopsies of suspected lesions are performed to help delineate the cause of problems in many patients. They are performed to clarify masses detected on physical examination, for associated abnormalities in areas where the primary tumor is suspected to have originated (bone marrow biopsies) or in areas where imaging studies have detected focal lesions. The specimen obtained during the biopsies are sent to the clinical laboratories and studied for various reasons, but usually for cytopathologic examination of the specimen. They can also be studied for possible infectious etiology and cytogenetic analysis (chromosomal abnormalities). The quantity of specimen obtained will depend upon the planned use of the specimen and the area where the specimen is collected. The needles utilized for the biopsy will range from small gauge to large gauge needles, short or long needles, and core-sampling devices.

Biopsies done in radiology are performed with either ultrasound or computed tomographic (CT) guidance. The CT scanner localizes the area to be biopsied (usually a focal mass in a deep site non-palpable to the examining hand) and the radiologist determines the proper and safe approach for the biopsy. The newly acquired helical 16-slice CT scanner at the University Hospital allows for CT-fluoroscopic guidance, allowing for faster and safer biopsies to be performed.

Definition
Imaging studies (CT, MR, ultrasound, PET, angiography) allow assessment of abnormalities involving the deep extension of suspected soft tissue, blood vessels, and bony diseases. Among all these instruments, the CT scan is the most commonly utilized imaging device to examine suspected abnormalities in the chest, abdomen, pelvis, extremities, head and neck, and spine. An additional use of the CT scanner is to facilitate and guide a needle biopsy procedure.

Computed tomography is a machine that images anatomic information from a cross-sectional plane of the body. A CT-guided procedure may consist of a biopsy, in which a small sample of tissue from inside your body is obtained using the CT machine for guidance. This technique will often save you from having to have an operation to get the same piece of tissue.

Purpose
A biopsy is performed because a previous radiology test showed an abnormality. It is not clear what the abnormal tissue is, and a small sample of tissue is required to find out.

CT is used in the process of performing a biopsy, such as a needle biopsy, in order to guide the needle to the site of the biopsy and to provide rapid and precise localization of the needle. CT enables imaging of areas that are normally beyond visible boundaries. This enables the physician to see the target area clearly and help to ensure that the tissue being removed is from the target lesion.

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• Biopsies in Multiple Myeloma

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