A breast biopsy is performed to obtain a small sample of tumour tissue for the Histopathologist to examine using a variety of stains.  The biopsy can be done using a core-needle biopsy or surgical biopsy.  The results will be able to provide the following information;

• Whether the lesion is malignant or benign
• Which type of breast cancer (ductal or lobular or stromal) and the cancer grade
• Hormone Receptor Assay to check Estrogen Receptor or Progesterone Receptor status (the result will determine whether the cancer is ER+ or PR+)
• Immuno-Histo-Chemistry analysis of HER-2 status (this protein presence is suggestive of more rapid tumour cell growth)

Click to view NBCF video on Breast Biopsy

Patients are recommended to have the Triple Assessment for the diagnosis of breast cancer;

• Clinical Assessment by your breast doctor
• Imaging such as mammogram and/or ultrasound
• Pathology (cytology and/or histology)

The information from the Assessment allows your surgeon and oncologist to be able to;

• Classify and grade your breast cancer type
• Arrange suitable treatment plan
• Choose the optimum timing and order for your treatment options
• Estimate the duration of your entire treatment
• Offer hormonal treatment for ER+ cancer

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