If you have a lump the doctor may do one of two tests to get a sample of the tissue/cells from the lump.
- A core biopsy is when a needle is inserted into your breast lump to get a sample of the lump. Local anaesthetic is used prior to the insertion of the needle to numb the area and reduce pain.
- A fine needle aspiration (FNA) is when some fluid or cells are removed from a lump through a smaller needle.
Ultrasound or mammography equipment may be used to assist the doctor in obtaining the tissue/cells.
The cells or tissue are sent to the Laboratory and examined under a microscope. The results are not available on the day of your clinic visit and you will be asked to return to the clinic at a later date.
The biopsy can be sore. However local anaesthetic is given and the procedure only takes a few minutes. Occasionally there may be a little bleeding or bruising.
