biopsy - Lymphomas Message Board

nyjt1000 · 06-16-2004, 09:44 PM

what kind of doctor does a biopsy?and how much does it cost? is a fna accurate ?thanks jonathan

gregv · 06-16-2004, 11:21 PM

usually a surgeon does a biopsy (your GP will refer you to one). I am not sure how much it costs as it is free here in Canada with Health Care. A FNA biopsy is quite accurate but not as accurate as a full biopsy and removal of a lymph node. It is possible to miss cancer cells if they are there with a FNA biopsy where as a full biopsy wont have this problem. If you are thinking of getting one i would suggest you get a full biopsy or at least ask your GP or surgeon about either and get a better understanding.

Marimac · 06-17-2004, 05:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gregv

usually a surgeon does a biopsy (your GP will refer you to one). I am not sure how much it costs as it is free here in Canada with Health Care. A FNA biopsy is quite accurate but not as accurate as a full biopsy and removal of a lymph node. It is possible to miss cancer cells if they are there with a FNA biopsy where as a full biopsy wont have this problem. If you are thinking of getting one i would suggest you get a full biopsy or at least ask your GP or surgeon about either and get a better understanding.

In certain areas of the US the price of any biopsy runs from $130.00+ for the pathology report and then add to that the Surgeon's fee for the excision. The prices run somewhat less if you pay cash. If you have to pay cash you can ask the price in advance and shop around. I know this is just now becoming an issue in the area I live in, that people are beginning to ask questions about the price of services in advance and making financial agreements. Its sometimes cheaper than the co-pay or deductible to health insurance.