Introduction
Biopsy is a fundamental method used for the diagnosis and evaluation of diseases. This article will focus on two common types of biopsies: fine needle biopsy (FNB) and core needle biopsy (CNB). Both methods are suitable for different clinical scenarios and play a significant role in the diagnosis and treatment processes of patients.

Fine Needle Biopsy (FNB)

Definition and Method
Fine needle biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample is taken from an organ or tissue using a thin needle. It is typically performed under the guidance of imaging techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or fluoroscopy.

Procedure: During fine needle biopsy, the needle is directed toward the targeted area, and a tissue sample is collected. This needle is generally in the range of 22-27 gauge and is very thin.
Imaging: The imaging techniques used before and during the procedure help accurately locate the target area and ensure proper needle placement.

Applications

Thyroid Nodules: Fine needle biopsy is commonly used in the evaluation of abnormal nodules in the thyroid gland. This is crucial for determining whether the nodule is malignant or benign.

• Lymph Nodes: Used to evaluate swollen or abnormally appearing lymph nodes.
  Breasts: Employed in the assessment of masses or abnormal findings in the breast.
  Liver and Other Organs: Also applied in the evaluation of masses or abnormal areas in the liver and other internal organs.

  Advantages

  • Minimally Invasive: Fine needle biopsy is generally minimally invasive and comes with low risks.

  • Fast and Simple: The procedure is typically completed quickly and is not very uncomfortable for the patient.

  • Use of Small Needle: The use of a small needle is usually associated with minimal pain and a lower risk of complications.

Disadvantages

• Sampling Limitations: Due to the small size of the tissue samples, it can be challenging to fully assess tumors or diseases.

• Diagnostic Limitations: In certain cases, fine needle biopsy may not capture all the cellular details needed for a complete diagnosis.

Core Needle Biopsy (CNB)

Definition and Method
Core needle biopsy involves using a larger diameter needle to obtain a more substantial tissue sample from an organ or tissue. This method is typically used when more detailed analysis and diagnosis are required.

• Procedure: In a core needle biopsy, a needle is inserted into the target area to collect a tissue sample. The needle typically ranges from 14 to 22 gauge, making it significantly thicker than those used in fine needle biopsies.
  Imaging Guidance: Ultrasound, CT, or MRI techniques help guide the needle precisely to the targeted region.

  Applications:

  • Breast: Used for detailed analysis of masses or lesions in the breast.
  • Prostate: Commonly used in the diagnosis of prostate cancer, especially in patients with elevated PSA levels.
  • Liver: Applied to evaluate liver lesions, cysts, or tumors.
  • Kidney and Other Organs: Preferred for thorough assessment of abnormal areas in the kidney and other internal organs.

  Advantages:

  • Larger Sampling: Provides larger tissue samples, allowing for more comprehensive analysis.
  • High Diagnostic Accuracy: Larger specimens enable more accurate diagnosis, particularly for tumors or complex pathologies.
  • Comprehensive Evaluation: Offers a better understanding of the histological structure of tumors.

  Disadvantages:

  • More Invasive: Generally more invasive than fine needle biopsy, with higher risks of post-procedure pain and complications.
  • Risks: Includes bleeding, infection, and other complications, more commonly than with fine needle biopsy.
  • Longer Procedure Time: Typically takes more time and may require anesthesia in some patients.

  Complications (for both biopsy types):

  • Bleeding: Localized bleeding can occur post-procedure, especially more prominently with core needle biopsy.
  • Infection: There is a risk of infection at the biopsy site, which can be minimized with sterile techniques and appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis.
  • Pain: Usually mild to moderate and manageable with pain relievers.
  • Organ Injury: There's a risk of damaging the targeted organ or surrounding tissues, especially with core needle biopsy.

  Recovery and Follow-Up:

  • Recovery Time: Fine needle biopsy generally requires less recovery time, while core needle biopsy may need several days.
  • Monitoring: Post-procedure follow-up is crucial, especially for managing pain and detecting complications early.
  • Results: Biopsy results are usually available within a few days to a couple of weeks. Treatment and management plans are developed based on these results.

  Conclusion:

  Fine needle biopsy (FNB) and core needle biopsy (CNB) are two distinct yet essential techniques for diagnosing and evaluating various diseases. While FNB offers a faster, less invasive approach, CNB provides larger and more detailed tissue samples, increasing diagnostic precision. The choice between these methods depends on clinical conditions, the targeted area, and individual patient factors. Accurate patient assessment and proper technique selection are vital for effective diagnosis and treatment.

  These insights are supported by medical expertise and validated by specialist Dr. Ibadat Hasanov. Always consult your healthcare provider for a personalized treatment plan, as each case requires individual evaluation.