Fine-needle biopsy (FNB) is primarily used for what purpose?

Fine-needle biopsy (FNB) is primarily utilized to obtain a sample of tissue for cytological evaluation. This technique involves the use of a thin, hollow needle to extract cellular material from a suspicious lesion or mass in the breast. The sample can then be examined microscopically to determine the presence of cancer cells or other abnormalities.

This method is particularly valuable as it is minimally invasive, allowing for preliminary diagnosis without the need for more extensive surgical procedures. The cytological evaluation focuses on the cellular characteristics, which can provide crucial information regarding the nature of the lesion, thus aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.

The other options describe purposes that do not align with the primary function of fine-needle biopsy. For instance, while some biopsies can involve more extensive tissue removal for further analysis, fine-needle biopsy is specifically not designed for this purpose. Similarly, cosmetic reconstruction addresses aesthetic outcomes following treatment and is unrelated to the diagnostic focus of FNB. While imaging is essential in locating tumors, it does not describe the core function of a fine-needle biopsy, which is to evaluate tissue on a cellular level.