What is the primary purpose of a biopsy in pathology?

The primary purpose of a biopsy in pathology is to remove tissue for diagnostic examination. This procedure is essential for obtaining a sample of cells or tissues from a patient, which can be analyzed to determine the presence of disease, such as cancer or other abnormalities. The biopsy enables pathologists to closely examine the characteristics of the tissue under a microscope and conduct various tests, which can provide vital information about the diagnosis and prognosis of a patient’s condition.

This diagnostic approach is crucial because it helps differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, informs treatment decisions, and allows for accurate disease classification. By obtaining a direct sample from the area of concern, a biopsy provides definitive information that other diagnostic methods, such as imaging, may not be able to clarify.