A lung biopsy is a medical procedure used to obtain a small sample of lung tissue for diagnostic examination. This biopsy can be performed using several methods, including needle biopsy, where a thin needle is inserted through the chest wall into the lung to extract a tissue sample, or via bronchoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube is inserted through the mouth or nose and into the airways to collect tissue from within the lung. Another method, known as surgical biopsy, involves making a larger incision to directly access and remove a portion of lung tissue. The primary reasons for performing a lung biopsy include diagnosing or evaluating abnormalities detected in imaging studies, such as chest X-rays or CT scans. It is commonly used to investigate suspected lung cancers, infections, or interstitial lung diseases. The biopsy helps identify the specific type of disease or condition affecting the lung, guiding appropriate treatment plans and management strategies. Complications associated with lung biopsy can include bleeding, infection, or pneumothorax (a collapsed lung) due to air leakage into the chest cavity. Some patients may experience pain at the biopsy site or difficulty breathing. In cases of needle biopsy, there is a risk of injury to nearby structures or tissues. Despite these potential risks, lung biopsy is an essential diagnostic tool that provides valuable information for the accurate diagnosis and treatment of various pulmonary conditions, contributing to improved patient outcomes.
