biopsy

[ bahy-op-see ]

noun

, plural bi·op·sies.

1. the removal for diagnostic study of a piece of tissue from a living body.
2. a specimen obtained from a biopsy.

verb (used with object)

, bi·op·sied, bi·op·sy·ing.

1. to remove (living tissue) for diagnostic evaluation.

biopsy

/ ˈbaɪɒpsɪ; baɪˈɒptɪk /

noun

1. examination, esp under a microscope, of tissue from a living body to determine the cause or extent of a disease
2. the sample taken for such an examination

biopsy

/ bī′ŏp′sē /

1. A sample of tissue removed from a living body by a medical provider for diagnostic purposes.

Derived Forms

• bioptic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of biopsy¹

First recorded in 1890–95; bi- ² + -opsy ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of biopsy¹

C20: from bio- + Greek opsis sight

Example Sentences

The ETH Zurich researchers analysed fat tissue biopsies from formerly overweight people who had undergone stomach reduction or gastric bypass surgery.

From Science Daily

Then, a general dermatologist performed a physical exam using the visual appearance of the blemishes and a dermatoscope to make a diagnosis, and if needed, performed a biopsy.

From Science Daily

He asked his doctors to remove it and conduct a biopsy, which came back cancerous.

From Los Angeles Times

Reaching this conclusion based on the biomarkers is like diagnosing cancer without doing a biopsy.

From Los Angeles Times

He said there had been a delay in getting biopsy results for Ms Turbill, which he said was because of a shortage of trained staff and staff-leave.

From BBC

Related Words

• autopsy
• inquiry
• observation
• probe
• test