[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BlogPosting","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/what-to-expect-from-your-breast-biopsy\/#BlogPosting","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/what-to-expect-from-your-breast-biopsy\/","headline":"What to Expect from Your Breast Biopsy","name":"What to Expect from Your Breast Biopsy","description":"What to Expect from Your Breast Biopsy May 6, 2025 Early detection is essential to breast cancer treatment. The sooner cancer is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat and avoid long-term health consequences. If a mammogram or other imaging test shows an abnormality, a breast biopsy will be recommended to confirm the diagnosis. […]","datePublished":"2025-05-06","dateModified":"2025-12-02","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/author\/seo-user\/#Person","name":"Advance SEO","url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/author\/seo-user\/","identifier":7,"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/25d521bea98e4070937950c92cd06d2b99615947d3d29e3682593c48f0372431?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/25d521bea98e4070937950c92cd06d2b99615947d3d29e3682593c48f0372431?s=96&d=mm&r=g","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Regional Cancer Care Associates","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/logo.svg","url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/logo.svg","width":506,"height":228}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/breast-ultrasound-with-fine-needle-aspiration.jpg","url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/breast-ultrasound-with-fine-needle-aspiration.jpg","height":600,"width":900},"url":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/what-to-expect-from-your-breast-biopsy\/","about":["All Cancers"],"wordCount":1429,"articleBody":"\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat to Expect from Your Breast Biopsy\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMay 6, 2025\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tEarly detection is essential to breast cancer treatment. The sooner cancer is diagnosed, the easier it will be to treat and avoid long-term health consequences. If a mammogram or other imaging test shows an abnormality, a breast biopsy will be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.Following, we discuss breast biopsies and what to expect from testing.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat Is a Breast Biopsy?A biopsy is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate tissue for signs of disease. It involves removing a piece of tissue or small amount of fluid, called a sample, from the suspicious area that was identified during screening. This sample is then examined in a laboratory to look for cancer cells.A breast biopsy can be done in one of several ways. The recommended method depends on factors including the size and location of the breast abnormality, whether there is more than one abnormality, the individual\u2019s overall health, and more. Types of breast biopsies include:Fine needle aspiration: This type of biopsy uses a thin, hollow needle to take a small amount of tissue or fluid from the breast.Core needle biopsy: Like fine needle aspiration, this type of biopsy uses a larger hollow needle to take a larger tissue or fluid sample.Incisional or excisional biopsy: This type of biopsy is a surgery that removes part (incisional) or all (excisional) of the tumor for testing.Lymph node biopsy: This type of biopsy removes tissue from the lymph nodes under the arm. Physicians use it to check for signs of spreading cancer.After the tissue sample has been taken, it is sent to a medical laboratory. There, it will be tested by a pathologist who prepares a detailed report of the sample\u2019s important characteristics.Benign Breast Biopsy ResultsMost breast biopsies do not find cancer. Breast tissues undergo many changes over time that are benign and no cause for concern. Other changes may require medical attention but aren\u2019t cancer. The following biopsy report terms describe non-cancerous changes:AdenosisSclerosing adenosis (SA)Apocrine metaplasiaCystsColumnar cell change (CCC)Columnar cell hyperplasia (CCH)Collagenous spherulosis (CS)Duct ectasiaColumnar alteration with prominent apical snouts and secretions (CAPSS)PapillomatosisFibrocystic breast changesMany of these conditions do not need to be treated unless they are causing symptoms. Many of them also have no effect on the risk of developing future breast cancer. Individuals should speak with a healthcare provider about symptoms or any concerns regarding benign breast biopsy results.Cancerous Breast Biopsy ResultsIf cancer cells were found in the biopsy sample, the pathology report will include additional information about the cancer\u2019s characteristics. This information will help the cancer care team understand your condition better, allowing them to recommend the best treatment plan for you. Following are some terms you may see on your pathology report:Noninvasive or InvasiveNoninvasive cancer cells are found only in the milk duct where they initially formed. They may also be described as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). This is considered pre-cancer or stage 0 breast cancer. Invasive cancer cells, meanwhile, have spread to tissue near the milk duct or beyond the breast.Cancer GradeThe biopsy report will also include the cancer\u2019s grade. This is a numbered scale that describes a tumor\u2019s size, shape, degree of abnormality, and growth rate. Cancer grade is a separate identifier from its stage but is used to determine the stage. Grades include:Grade 1: Cells look slightly different from normal cells. The tumor usually grows slowly.Grade 2: Cells look noticeably different from normal cells. The tumor grows at a fast rate.Grade 3: Cells look very different from normal cells. The tumor grows at a fast rate.Hormone ReceptorsHormone receptors are special proteins found inside cells. They bind to certain hormones, provoking a response from the cell. Part of a breast cancer biopsy includes checking for hormone receptors that bind to estrogen or progesterone. If the tumor tests positive for either type of receptor, then it is using hormones to grow. This means hormone therapy may be an effective treatment.On a biopsy pathology report, the word \u201cnegative\u201d indicates that no hormone receptors are present. \u201cPositive\u201d indicates that there are receptors present. If the hormone receptor report is positive, it will also include the following information:The percentage of cells that test positive for receptorsAn Allred score, which is numbered from 0 to 8 based on the percentage of cells that test positive for receptors and on how well receptors show up on testsHER2HER2 is a protein responsible for controlling breast growth. Some amount of HER2 protein is normal in healthy breasts. Certain types of cancer produce too much HER2, however, causing uncontrolled cell division and growth. By measuring the quantity of HER2 present in breast cancer, oncologists can determine what type of cancer is present and plan a more effective treatment.Individuals may see the term \u201cequivocal\u201d on a pathology report. This indicates that the amount of HER2 is unclear. Second tests may be requested to determine a cancer\u2019s HER2 status.Cancer StageFinally, the pathology report will include the cancer\u2019s stage. This is scaled from 0 to IV based on an overall understanding of the tumor and its behavior, including its grade, hormone receptor status, HER2 status, and how much cancer cells have spread. Higher stages indicate more serious cancers requiring more aggressive treatments.Cancer TypeIn addition to stage, the biopsy report may also designate a special type of breast cancer. Types include:Inflammatory breast cancer: This rare type usually does not present with a noticeable lump, instead causing swelling or reddened skin.Paget disease: This rare type develops in the nipple and areola.Phyllodes tumor: This type develops in the connective tissue in the breast. While usually benign, Phyllodes tumors are sometimes malignant.Frequently Asked Questions About Breast BiopsyWhat is a biopsy, and why is it necessary?A biopsy involves removing a small tissue sample for examination to confirm whether cells are cancerous. Breast biopsies are typically requested after a routine mammogram or other test detects a tissue abnormality in the breast. The biopsy helps medical oncologists come to a more conclusive diagnosis.How else is breast cancer diagnosed?Along with a biopsy, breast cancer diagnosis usually involves a combination of a physical exam, mammography, ultrasound, and MRI.What do physicians learn from a breast biopsy?Breast biopsies can provide information about whether a tumor is invasive, its grade, the presence of certain proteins, the stage of cancer, and the type of cancer.Do all breast biopsies identify cancer?Most biopsies do not identify cancer. The procedure can also be used to confirm that an abnormality is benign and may not need treatment.Regional Cancer Care Associates specialists provide care to more than 30,000 new patients and 265,000 established patients each year. RCCA physicians offer patients innovative therapies, including immunotherapies and targeted therapy, cutting-edge diagnostics as well as access to approximately 300 clinical trials in community-based centers close to home.RCCA includes more than 100 medical oncologists and hematologists who treat patients who have solid tumors, blood-based cancers and benign blood disorders at 25 locations throughout New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and the Washington, D.C., area. RCCA care centers also provide infusion services to people with a number of non-oncologic conditions \u2014 including multiple sclerosis, Crohn\u2019s disease, asthma, iron-deficiency anemia, and rheumatoid arthritis \u2014 who take intravenously-administered medications.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\twe are here for you\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tFor more information or to schedule an appointment, call 844-346-7222. You can also schedule an appointment by calling the\u00a0RCCA location\u00a0nearest you.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\trequest an appointment\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRELATED ARTICLES\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCutting Your Cancer Risk: RCCA Oncologists Discuss 4 Lesser-Known Steps\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tYou don\u2019t smoke. You drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. You avoid processed meats and you dab on the sunscreen before you hit the\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWhat to Expect During a Lung Bronchoscopy\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBronchoscopy is an invaluable tool that allows physicians to examine the inside of the lungs without surgery, enabling them to detect and diagnose lung cancer.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGetting Your First Mammogram on Schedule Really Matters: 2 RCCA Oncologists Explain Why\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThere are many reasons women don\u2019t obtain their first mammogram at the recommended age: work commitments and other demands on their time, uncertainty regarding when\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn More\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tRegional Cancer Care Associates is one of fewer than 200 medical practices in the country selected to participate in the Oncology Care Model (OCM); a recent Medicare initiative aimed at improving care coordination and access to and quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries undergoing chemotherapy treatment.\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t"},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"News","item":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"What to Expect from Your Breast Biopsy","item":"https:\/\/www.regionalcancercare.org\/news\/what-to-expect-from-your-breast-biopsy\/#breadcrumbitem"}]}]