An individual has a growth removed. What exam is used to determine if the growth is benign or cancerous?
A Autopsy
B Culture
C Cross-section
D Biopsy
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is D. Biopsy.
A biopsy is the medical procedure used to remove a sample of tissue from a growth to determine whether it is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). During a biopsy, a healthcare professional removes a small amount of the growth or tumor tissue, which is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist. This allows the doctor to observe the cells’ structure and behavior, which can indicate whether they are normal, abnormal, or cancerous. The biopsy can be performed in various ways, such as through a needle (needle biopsy), through a surgical procedure (incisional or excisional biopsy), or using a scope (endoscopic biopsy).
A culture (Option B) is a laboratory test used to detect infections, where a sample of tissue or fluid is grown in a lab to identify the type of bacteria or fungus. It is not used to diagnose cancer.
A cross-section (Option C) is typically a type of imaging technique, such as a CT scan or MRI, which provides detailed images of internal structures. While cross-sectional images can help locate a growth, they cannot determine if a growth is cancerous or benign without further tissue analysis.
An autopsy (Option A) is a post-mortem examination performed after death to determine the cause of death or identify diseases that may have been present. It is not performed on living individuals to diagnose cancer or other conditions.
In summary, a biopsy is the gold standard for determining whether a growth is benign or malignant by providing direct tissue analysis. This procedure is crucial in guiding appropriate treatment decisions.