tissue sampling techniques: biopsies, imprints, and FNAs

Question 1

what is a tissue biopsy?

Answer 1

• a procedure that involves sampling a small piece of tissue/skin (removed for cytological and/or histopathological exam)

Question 2

biopsy methods

Answer 2

• shave biopsy
• punch biopsy
• incision (aka wedge) biopsy
• excision biopsy
• FNA

Question 3

why are tissue biopsies used?

Answer 3

• to diagnose:
  skin cancer
  skin conditions
  bacterial and fungal infections

are cheap

Question 4

when is the FNA aspirate method used (over the non-aspirate method)?

Answer 4

non-fluid masses

Question 5

when is the FNA non-aspirate method used (over the aspirate method)?

Answer 5

on a fluid mass

Question 6

list the slide preparation techniques

Answer 6

• compression preparation method
• modified compression prep (for fragile or thin samples)
• starfish method (used for highly viscous samples)
• line smear (low concentration)
• wedge smear