Which procedure is used to obtain a tissue sample for diagnostic purposes?

• A. Biopsy
• B. Colposcopy
• C. Cryosurgery
• D. Incision and Drainage

Answer: (A)

Obtaining a tissue sample for diagnostic purposes is done through a biopsy. A biopsy involves removing a small piece of tissue from the area of concern so a pathologist can examine it under a microscope to determine whether disease is present and, if so, its nature and severity. This direct sampling provides the definitive information clinicians use to diagnose conditions like cancer, infection, or inflammatory processes.

Colposcopy is a visualization procedure that allows careful examination of mucosal surfaces; while tissue samples can be taken during colposcopy, the procedure itself is primarily for inspection rather than sampling. Cryosurgery uses extreme cold to destroy abnormal tissue, not to obtain a diagnostic specimen. Incision and drainage focuses on draining an abscess and relieving pressure, not on providing tissue for diagnostic analysis.