US Medical Term · procedures
Biopsy
Biopsia
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Biopsy |
| Spanish (Español) | Biopsia |
| Chinese (中文) | 切片檢查 |
| Korean (한국어) | 생검 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Sinh thiết |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Biopsy |
| Portuguese (Português) | Biópsia |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | การตัดชิ้นเนื้อตรวจ |
| Japanese (日本語) | 生検 |
What it means
A biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small sample of tissue or cells is removed from the body and examined under a microscope by a pathologist to diagnose or rule out disease, most commonly cancer. Types include needle biopsy, punch biopsy, endoscopic biopsy, and surgical excision biopsy. The method used depends on the location and suspected condition. Local anesthesia is usually applied to minimize discomfort. Biopsies may be performed in a clinic, radiology suite, or operating room. Results typically take several days and are used to guide treatment decisions. A biopsy is often the definitive step in confirming a diagnosis.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
My dermatologist performed a skin biopsy to test a suspicious mole for melanoma.
Mi dermatólogo realizó una biopsia de piel para analizar un lunar sospechoso para detectar melanoma.
I need a needle biopsy of my thyroid nodule and want to confirm it is covered.
Necesito una biopsia con aguja de mi nódulo tiroideo y quiero confirmar que está cubierta.
The pathology report from my biopsy showed no signs of malignancy.
El informe de patología de mi biopsia no mostró signos de malignidad.
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026