Biopsies are a fundamental tool in diagnosing cancer. They not only confirm the presence of cancer but also identify its subtypes, aiding in precise treatment planning. Additionally, the development of newer tools like Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and molecular profiling which has further enhanced the accuracy and depth of cancer diagnosis always require biopsy from where adequate DNA can be extracted.

Despite their significance, biopsies are often surrounded by misconceptions that can lead to unnecessary fear and anxiety. These biopsy myths prevent patients from availing of timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, potentially compromising the treatment’s outcome. 

Therefore, there is an urgent need to find out the truth behind the false notions surrounding cancer biopsies. In this article, we will explore cancer biopsy facts, debunking some of the most common myths about the diagnostic method.

Debunking the Common Misconceptions About Cancer Biopsies

Advancements in medical technology have led to the advent of several tools and convenient techniques for making biopsies an easier process for diagnosing cancer cases. However, many patients are still sceptical about biopsy as a cancer diagnostic method because of associated misconceptions. In this section, we will debunk some common biopsy myths:

Myth 1: Biopsies are Painful and Dangerous

Many people fear biopsies because they think that the procedure will be painful and dangerous. However, most biopsies are relatively quick and involve minimal discomfort. While no medical surgery or medication is entirely without risk, the dangers associated with biopsies are minimal. 

Depending on the type of biopsy you need to undergo, your doctor might administer local anaesthesia to numb the targeted area, ensuring the procedure is as painless as possible. The procedure is done either in local anaesthesia or in sedation so that no discomfort occurs. The doctor suggests adequate pain control and provides proper medication after the procedure so that there is no discomfort. Moreover, biopsies rarely cause complications like infections, bleeding, or scarring.

Myth 2: If You Need a Biopsy, It Means You Have Cancer

Hearing from your doctor that you need a biopsy can be alarming, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. Usually, medical experts suggest biopsies as a precautionary measure to rule out cancer or other conditions. In many cases, biopsy results reveal benign (non-cancerous) conditions that can be treated or monitored without any aggressive intervention.

You might need to undergo a biopsy if imaging tests, like mammograms or MRIs, show abnormalities that require further investigation. But keep in mind that every abnormality is not cancerous. 

Myth 3: A Biopsy Can Cause Rapid Tumor Growth)

For many years, along with patients, some physicians believed that a biopsy could increase tumour growth. No, it’s one of the biopsy myths, as there is no relevant scientific evidence to support this specific notion.

This misconception likely stems from a misunderstanding of how cancer behaves and how biopsies are performed. A biopsy involves taking and examining a small tissue sample from a suspicious area under a microscope. If cancer cells were prone to spreading through such diagnostic procedures, it would be nearly impossible to treat patients surgically.

A study was even performed at Mayo Clinic’s campus in Florida 2000 patients, quote more about this to dispel this false notion. The study concluded that patients who underwent biopsy had better outcomes and longer survival rates than their counterparts.

Myth 4: Biopsies Can Increase the Cancer Stage 

Just like the previously discussed misconception, biopsy increasing the cancer stage is also a myth. As per the National Cancer Institute study there is no conclusive evidence available based on which it can be firmly said that a needle biopsy can increase the stage of cancer. On the contrary, if done early , treatment can be initiated early adding to patient benefit

Myth 5: All Biopsies Are the Same

Several types of biopsies are performed for cancer treatment. But all of them are not the same. One of the cancer biopsy facts you definitely should be aware of is that treating oncologists determine the suitability of a specific biopsy procedure based on certain situations, patients’ medical conditions, and the type, location, size, and nature of the tumour. 

Understanding the differences can help you better demystify the process. So, here are the most common types of biopsies:

• Needle biopsy: This is the least invasive procedure, where a needle is used to extract a small tissue sample.
• Core biopsy: Core biopsy involves using a larger needle to remove a small cylinder of tissue.
• Excisional biopsy: During this procedure, a medical expert removes the entire suspicious area or lump, which may also serve as a form of treatment.
• Surgical Biopsy: In some cancer cases, a more invasive surgical biopsy is needed. This biopsy method involves performing surgery to remove a larger section of tissue or an entire lump.

Myth 6: Biopsies Always Need Hospitalisation 

Feeling nervous about visiting the hospital for your biopsy? You don’t have to necessarily go to the hospital for a biopsy. Most biopsies usually require minor procedures and local anaesthesia. Hence, they can be performed at a doctor’s clinic in a single daycare lasting less than 4 hours and the patient is discharged on the same day.

However, when your biopsy involves collecting a tissue sample for your internal organs and general anaesthesia, you might even need to stay overnight or more in the hospital ward to recover from anaesthesia’s side effects.

Myth 7: A Negative Biopsy Means You're Completely Cancer-free

A negative biopsy result comes as a huge relief. However, you should understand that a negative biopsy result means no cancer was found in the sample taken. It doesn’t mean you are free of cancer cells. 

Sometimes, a biopsy can miss cancer cells if they are not present in the sample, especially in cases where the abnormality is small or difficult to locate. In such situations, doctors may recommend additional tests, imaging tests, or close monitoring to diagnose whether or not cancerous cells are present.

Concluding Words

Although biopsies are a powerful cancer diagnostic tool, many people refrain from undergoing them due to biopsy myths. Understanding the discussed misconceptions and the truth behind them can ease your anxiety and help you make the right decision to undergo a biopsy for optimal health. Always meet and discuss with your doctor about all pros and cons. A doctor will always suggest what is best for the patient. So, schedule your biopsy at Medanta Cancer Care department for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate cancer treatment plan.