Pleural needle biopsy

Alternative names:

biopsy - pleural needle

How the test is performed:

This test does not have to be done in the hospital. You will be sitting up for the biopsy. The skin at the biopsy site will be cleansed, and a local anesthetic will be given. The needle is then inserted through the skin so that the biopsy can be taken. The needle is rotated and tissue samples are withdrawn. The biopsy site is then bandaged.

How to prepare for the test:

Blood tests will be done before the biopsy, and a chest X-ray may also be taken. You must sign consent forms.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

With the injection of the local anesthetic, there will be a brief prick and a burning sensation.

Why the test is performed:

The biopsy may distinguish between a cancerous and noncancerous disease. It will help detect whether a viral, fungal or parasitic disease is present.