A biopsy is an invasive method of examination that involves taking cells from diseased tissue. The material for examination is usually taken with a needle. After the biological material is taken, it is evaluated under a microscope (histopathological examination).
Biopsy examination allows for accurate evaluation of lesional tissues. Biopsies are used to examine: liver, kidney, bone marrow, cervix, thyroid, lymph nodes, prostate and others. Biopsy examinations are performed on doctor’s orders.
Course of examination – thyroid biopsy
The patient takes a lying position for the examination. The procedure does not require anesthesia. The doctor inserts a thin needle into the thyroid gland, controlling the place of insertion with an ultrasound machine. A piece of tissue is taken and spread on a slide for microscopic examination. The result is issued as a description, usually after several days.
Indications for thyroid biopsy examination
- Diagnosis of thyroid tumors
- Evaluation of the malignancy of thyroid tumors
- Hashimoto’s disease.
Thyroid biopsy is generally not associated with any complications, or there may be a hematoma at the injection site.