What Does This Biopsy Report Indicate?

Posted on Wed, 8 Jun 2016

Question: I had CT, MRI with/without contrast and now biopsy of 3 lesions on my liver. There are 15 in varied shapes and sizes. So far NO ONE has any answers. Can't say cancer or not and now it's been sent to Johns XXXXXXX to be evaluated. My family and I are terrified as this has been going on 3 months now. Should we be seeking a second opinion or doing anything else? What causes an inconclusive biopsy?

Answered by Dr. Deepak Sundriyal (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Hello dear. A repeat biopsy is warranted.

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear. Welcome to HCM.
I understand your concern. Reasons for inconclusive biopsy can be various like
1. very small tissue retrieved
2. irregularities in the tissue (differentiation)
3. improper processing techniques by pathology lab.
In that case , a repeat large biopsy under CT guidance is required and a second opinion from another pathologist must be taken.
Moreover, tumor markers can be ordered (CEA, CA 19.9, AFP, PSA) as per your clinical details.
Lastly a PET scan can sometimes be of help.
Feel free to ask further.
Regards

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina