The removal of a sample of tissue that is looked at under a microscope to see if cancer cells are present. An excisional biopsy is surgery to remove an entire lump. An incisional biopsy, which is less commonly performed for breast tumors, removes part of the tumor. Removing tissue or fluid with a needle is called needle biopsy or aspiration. A term for more than 100 diseases that have uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells.
Cancer cells can spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body.
Cancer that begins in the lining or covering tissues of an organ. Lobular carcinoma in situ is found in the lobules of the breast. Ductal carcinoma in situ, also called intraductal carcinoma, arises in the ducts. Each study is designed to answer scientific questions and to find better ways to treat patients. An abnormal sac within a tissue or organ, usually filled with fluid.