A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue or cells is removed from the body and examined under a microscope to diagnose disease — most often to test for cancer.
A biopsy is a diagnostic procedure where a small amount of tissue, fluid, or cells is taken from a suspicious area of the body and sent to a pathology laboratory for microscopic examination. It is the most definitive method for diagnosing cancer and many other diseases, providing information that imaging alone cannot give.
There are several types of biopsy depending on the organ or tissue involved. A needle biopsy (fine-needle aspiration or core needle biopsy) uses a thin needle to extract tissue — commonly used for lumps in the breast, thyroid, or lymph nodes. A punch biopsy removes a small cylinder of skin for dermatological conditions. An excisional biopsy removes an entire suspicious lesion for analysis. Endoscopic biopsies are taken during procedures like colonoscopy or gastroscopy. In each case, local or general anaesthesia is used to minimise discomfort.
In Korea, biopsies are performed by pathologists and specialists at both private clinics and major hospitals. Results typically take 3–7 days for standard histology, or longer for specialised tests. Understanding your biopsy result — whether normal, benign, precancerous, or malignant — guides all subsequent treatment decisions.
Key Points
- Most definitive diagnostic test for cancer and tissue diseases
- Types include needle biopsy, punch biopsy, excisional biopsy, and endoscopic biopsy
- Tissue sample is analysed by a pathologist in a laboratory
- Results usually take 3–7 working days
- A benign biopsy means non-cancerous; malignant means cancerous
- Available at most hospitals and specialist clinics in Korea
When to See a Doctor
- When a doctor needs to confirm or rule out cancer after a suspicious scan or examination
- Unexplained lumps, growths, or skin changes
- Abnormal findings on mammogram, ultrasound, or CT scan
- Chronic inflammation or unusual symptoms requiring tissue diagnosis
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
Related Specialties
Find a Doctor in Korea
This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Disclaimer
This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
Sources & References
Last reviewed: March 1, 2025