What is one method of tissue sampling for a pathologic exam?

• A. Open biopsy
• B. Ultrasound
• C. MR-guided biopsy
• D. CT-guided biopsy

Answer: (A)

Open biopsy is recognized as a method of tissue sampling for a pathologic exam because it involves making a surgical incision to remove a portion of tissue, which can then be examined microscopically. This approach is typically used when there is a palpable mass or an area of abnormal tissue that requires detailed analysis. By directly accessing the tissue, open biopsy allows for the collection of a larger sample, often yielding sufficient material for a comprehensive assessment, which can lead to a definitive diagnosis.

In contrast, options such as ultrasound, MR-guided biopsy, and CT-guided biopsy serve different functions. While ultrasound is primarily a non-invasive imaging technique used to visualize tissues, it does not directly sample tissue for pathologic examination. MR-guided biopsy, although a valid technique for tissue sampling, uses magnetic resonance imaging to guide the biopsy needle, which is a different approach compared to open biopsy. Similarly, CT-guided biopsy is another method that employs computed tomography to help guide the needle for sampling, but it is still distinct from the surgical technique of open biopsy that can take a more substantial amount of tissue. Each of these alternative methods has its advantages and specific use cases but fundamentally differs from open biopsy in the approach taken to obtain tissue samples.