Biopsy

What is Biopsy?

A biopsy involves the removal of a small tissue sample from a suspicious area in the head and neck region for examination under a microscope. It is performed to diagnose or rule out conditions such as cancers, infections, or inflammatory disorders. ENT specialists utilize biopsies to obtain precise diagnoses and guide treatment planning.

Conditions Treated with Biopsy

• Suspected Malignancies: Tumors in the throat, larynx, sinuses, or salivary glands. Oral or nasopharyngeal cancers.
• Benign Growths: Polyps, cysts, or other non-cancerous masses.
• Chronic Infections or Inflammation: Persistent lesions in the mouth, throat, or nasal passages.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Sarcoidosis or granulomatous conditions affecting ENT tissues.
• Precancerous Changes: White or red patches (leukoplakia or erythroplakia) in the oral cavity.
• Unexplained Symptoms: Persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained swelling.

Goals of a Biopsy

• Accurate Diagnosis: Identifying the underlying cause of abnormal tissue or lesions.
• Treatment Planning: Determining the most appropriate course of action based on biopsy results.
• Early Detection: Catching cancer or other serious conditions in their early stages for better outcomes.
• Monitoring: Evaluating suspicious changes in tissue over time.
• Exclusion of Malignancy: Confirming benign conditions to alleviate patient anxiety.