Removal and microscopic examination of a tissue sample to determine if cancer is present is a (n)

Biopsy

A biopsy is a medical test, which involves the removal or extraction of sample cells or tissues from the patient in order to examine the samples for the presence or extent of a disease. The cells or tissues are usually examined under a microscope and sometimes by chemical means as well. Biopsies are commonly performed in the diagnosis or examination of possible cancerous or inflammatory conditions.