A needle biopsy uses a hollow needle to remove samples of tissue or cells from the breast. A pathologist studies these samples under a microscope to see if they contain cancer. If they do, more tests will be done to help you and your health care provider plan your treatment. Learn more about these tests.
Needle biopsies can be used to study lumps that can be felt (palpable masses) and suspicious areas that can only be seen on a mammogram or other imaging tests (non-palpable masses). There are two types of needle biopsies:
Updated 10/29/12
