Histology examination for cancer detection (tissue biopsy analysis)
This test involves examining a small sample of tissue removed from your body to check for signs of cancer, such as abnormal cell growth or other suspicious changes.
["A tissue biopsy helps doctors diagnose cancer and plan treatment options by closely examining cells under a microscope."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22036-8
- Short code
- Histology Cancer
- Synonyms
- Histology Cancer
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, persistent lumps, unusual bleeding, or if they suspect cancer based on medical history or other tests. It’s also used to confirm or rule out cancer in people with known risk factors, such as a family history of cancer or exposure to certain risk factors like smoking or radiation.
How Is the Tissue Sample Collected?
A small piece of tissue is taken from the area of concern using a needle or surgical procedure. This sample is then sent to a lab for detailed microscopic examination by a pathologist, who looks for abnormal cells that might indicate cancer.
What Happens During the Test?
The lab processes the tissue sample to prepare slides for microscopic analysis. Pathologists examine these slides to identify any abnormal cells, determine if cancer is present, and sometimes assess the type and stage of cancer if needed.
What Are the Possible Findings?
Results can show normal tissue, benign (non-cancerous) changes, or cancerous cells. If cancer is found, the pathologist may also describe the type of cancer, its size, and whether it has spread to nearby tissues. This information guides treatment decisions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. Early detection through biopsy allows for more effective and personalized treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapies. It also helps monitor cancer progression or response to treatment over time.
Short name
Tissue biopsy analysis
Frequently asked questions
What Are the Risks or Side Effects?
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Can This Test Be Done Without Surgery?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy