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biopsy

Biopsy (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/ˈbaɪɒpsi/

What does biopsy mean?

A medical procedure in which a sample of tissue or cells is taken from the body to be examined under a microscope.
"The results of the biopsy helped guide the patient's treatment plan."

Detailed Meaning of Biopsy

It is often used to diagnose or monitor certain medical conditions, such as cancer, infections, or autoimmune disorders. During a biopsy, a healthcare provider will remove a small piece of tissue or cells from the affected area using a special needle or instrument. The tissue or cells are then sent to a laboratory for analysis by a pathologist or other medical specialist. Biopsies can be performed on various parts of the body, including the skin, organs, and bones. The type of biopsy performed will depend on the location and nature of the suspected medical condition. Biopsies may be performed as part of a diagnostic workup, to monitor the progression of a disease, or to guide treatment decisions. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and is generally considered safe, although there may be some risks or side effects associated with the procedure.

Example Sentences for Biopsy

1. The doctor recommended a biopsy to investigate the suspicious lump.
2. Her biopsy results indicated no signs of cancer, providing relief.
3. A skin biopsy was performed to diagnose the unusual rash.
4. The pathologist examined the tissue sample from the lung biopsy.
5. After the colonoscopy, they performed a biopsy to check for abnormalities.
6. He was nervous before the prostate biopsy but knew it was necessary.

Origin and Etymology of Biopsy

The noun 'biopsy' has its roots in Greek and Latin. It is formed from the Greek word 'bios,' meaning 'life,' and the Greek word 'opsis,' meaning 'a sight' or 'a view.' The combination of these elements signifies a procedure that allows a view or examination of living tissue. In Latin, this concept was further developed into 'biopsia,' which referred to the examination of living tissue under a microscope. Over time, 'biopsy' entered the English language, maintaining its essential meaning as a medical procedure in which a sample of tissue or cells is taken from the body to be examined under a microscope. The etymology of 'biopsy' underscores its fundamental purpose of providing insights into living tissues for diagnostic and medical purposes.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun biopsy:

insertion

sampling

addition

implantation

Try Again!

Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Biopsy

1. A breast biopsy confirmed the presence of benign cysts.
2. The biopsy revealed malignant cells, necessitating immediate treatment.
3. The surgeon used precision instruments for a liver biopsy.
4. The bone marrow biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of leukemia.
5. The lymph node biopsy detected signs of infection.
6. She underwent a biopsy to evaluate the tumor's nature.
7. The kidney biopsy helped determine the cause of kidney disease.
8. The oral biopsy showed no signs of oral cancer.
9. The endoscopic biopsy was used to investigate gastrointestinal issues.
10. The biopsy report guided the oncologist's treatment plan.
11. Skin cancer was diagnosed through a simple skin biopsy.
12. He needed a muscle biopsy to investigate his muscle weakness.
13. The biopsy procedure was quick, with minimal discomfort.
14. The biopsy results were inconclusive, requiring further tests.
15. The doctor ordered a biopsy to determine the cause of the patient's abnormal test results.
16. The biopsy results confirmed the presence of cancer in the patient's lung.
17. The pathologist analyzed the biopsy sample and provided a diagnosis to the patient's healthcare provider.
18. The patient underwent a skin biopsy to determine if the mole was cancerous.
19. A bone marrow biopsy can be used to diagnose certain blood disorders.
20. The biopsy procedure was relatively quick and did not require a hospital stay.
21. The doctor explained the risks and benefits of the biopsy to the patient before the procedure.
22. The biopsy revealed that the patient's symptoms were caused by an infection.
23. The patient experienced some mild discomfort during the biopsy procedure.
24. The biopsy report was sent to the patient's healthcare provider within a few days.
25. Follow-up biopsies may be necessary to monitor the progression of certain medical conditions.