What is a common diagnostic procedure used to evaluate tumors?

A biopsy is a common diagnostic procedure used to evaluate tumors because it involves the removal of a small sample of tissue from the tumor or surrounding area for microscopic examination. This allows pathologists to assess the architectural and cellular characteristics of the tumor, helping to determine whether it is benign or malignant, the specific type of cancer, and other important prognostic indicators. The ability to directly analyze the tissue provides critical information about tumor behavior and assists in guiding treatment options.

While imaging methods like X-rays, ultrasound, and CT scans are useful for initial tumor detection, assessing the extent of disease, and guiding treatment decisions, they do not provide the definitive cellular and tissue-level information that a biopsy offers. These imaging techniques help visualize the size and location of tumors but cannot confirm the histological type or malignancy status without the histopathological analysis that comes from a biopsy.