core needle biopsy
Also written as: CNB — Core Needle Biopsy
Minimally invasive tissue sampling procedure using a large-gauge needle to obtain tissue cores for histologic diagnosis of suspicious breast lesions.
Full Definition
Core needle biopsy is the standard diagnostic procedure for evaluating suspicious breast lesions detected on imaging studies. The procedure uses image guidance (ultrasound, stereotactic, or MRI) to precisely target abnormal tissue and obtain multiple tissue cores using a spring-loaded biopsy device. CNB provides sufficient tissue for histologic diagnosis, immunohistochemical studies, and hormone receptor testing when malignancy is present. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and has largely replaced surgical biopsy for initial tissue diagnosis due to its accuracy, minimal invasiveness, and cost-effectiveness.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the guidance method (ultrasound, stereotactic, MRI) when documenting the procedure.
In Context
- "The suspicious calcifications identified on mammography require stereotactic core needle biopsy for tissue diagnosis." — Procedure requisition
- "Core needle biopsy results showed invasive ductal carcinoma with pending hormone receptor studies." — Pathology report