# What is Biopsy types?

Source: https://oncologyistanbul.com/glossary/biopsy-types

> The main ways a tissue sample is taken for diagnosis — needle, core, excisional, or incisional — each removing a different amount of tissue for a different purpose.

A needle biopsy uses a thin needle to withdraw cells or fluid, often guided by imaging, and is the least invasive option. A core biopsy uses a larger, hollow needle to remove a small cylinder of tissue, giving more material than a needle biopsy without a full surgical procedure. An excisional biopsy surgically removes an entire lump or suspicious area; an incisional biopsy removes only a portion of it, usually when the area is too large to remove entirely for a first diagnosis. Which type is used depends on the tumor's location and size, and on how much tissue the pathologist needs to make a confident diagnosis.

## Authoritative references
- [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biopsy)
- [Wikidata](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q179991)

Full glossary: https://oncologyistanbul.com/glossary