Oncology Diagnostic Procedures

Question 1

Biopsy (bx)

Answer 1

Excision of a small piece of tissue for microscopic examination to assist in determining a diagnosis

Question 2

Cytologic Testing

Answer 2

Examination of cells to determine their structure and origin. Pap smears are considered a form of cytologic testing

Question 3

Exploratory Surgery

Answer 3

Surgery performed for the purpose of determining if cancer is present or if a known cancer has spread. Biopsies are generally performed

Question 4

Staging Laparotomy

Answer 4

Surgical procedure in which the abdomen is entered to determine the extent and staging of a tumor