INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS OF
CancerGenetics
Advancing Cancer Diagnosis: The Role of Biopsy Techniques
-
Nafiseh Salehi Kakhki,1,*
1. Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University Mashhad Branch, Iran
- Introduction: Biopsy is one of the cornerstone techniques in cancer diagnosis, providing critical information about the nature of tumors. Through the extraction and analysis of tissue samples, biopsy methods enable the detection of malignancies, assessment of tumor type, and understanding of cancer progression. Traditional biopsy techniques, such as surgical and needle biopsies, have long been used to obtain tissue samples for histopathological examination. However, advancements in biopsy methods, including liquid biopsy, are revolutionizing the way cancer is detected and monitored. Liquid biopsy, in particular, offers a non-invasive approach, allowing for the analysis of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), cell-free DNA (cfDNA), and other biomarkers in the blood. This review explores the various biopsy techniques, their applications in cancer diagnosis, and their potential to improve patient outcomes through early detection and personalized treatment strategies.
- Methods: This review is based on an extensive analysis of recent studies and clinical trials that have utilized different biopsy techniques for cancer diagnosis. The focus is on comparing traditional tissue biopsies with emerging methods like liquid biopsy. We examined the technical aspects of each method, including sample collection, processing, and analysis. Special attention was given to liquid biopsy due to its non-invasive nature and its ability to provide real-time insights into tumor dynamics. The review also addresses the challenges associated with biopsy techniques, such as the accuracy of detection, the potential for false negatives, and the integration of biopsy data with other diagnostic tools.
- Results: Biopsy techniques have been instrumental in the accurate diagnosis of various cancers. Traditional tissue biopsies remain the gold standard for histopathological analysis, providing definitive diagnoses and guiding treatment decisions. However, liquid biopsy has emerged as a promising alternative, particularly for its ability to detect cancer at earlier stages, monitor treatment response, and identify genetic mutations without the need for invasive procedures. Studies have shown that liquid biopsy can detect minimal residual disease (MRD) and predict recurrence in certain cancers, making it a valuable tool for ongoing patient management. Additionally, liquid biopsy allows for the detection of tumor heterogeneity, which is crucial for the development of personalized treatment plans.
- Conclusion: Biopsy techniques continue to play a vital role in cancer diagnosis, with significant advancements enhancing their effectiveness and application. While traditional tissue biopsies provide essential histopathological information, liquid biopsy represents a new frontier in non-invasive cancer detection and monitoring. As these technologies evolve, they hold the potential to transform cancer diagnosis, enabling earlier detection, more precise treatment, and better patient outcomes. Future research should focus on optimizing biopsy methods, improving the sensitivity and specificity of liquid biopsy, and integrating these techniques into standard clinical practice to fully leverage their benefits in cancer care.
- Keywords: Biopsy, cancer diagnosis, liquid biopsy, tissue biopsy, personalized medicine
