What is a Pleural biopsy?

• A biopsy is a procedure performed to remove a piece of tissue from a body part for detailed microscopic examination.
• The membranes which surrounds the lungs are called as the Pleural Membranes
• Sometimes a small piece of the pleura is required to be taken. This procedure is called as a Pleural Biopsy.

How is a pleural biopsy done?

A special biopsy needle called as Cope’s Pleural needle is used.

When is a pleural biopsy needed?

It is sometime required to determine if infection especially tuberculosis, cancer, or another condition is present.