What Are Biopsy, FNAC, IHC ,FISH , liquid biopsy & NGS test for Cancer Detection ?

Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC)
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure used to investigate superficial lumps or masses. During the procedure, a thin needle is inserted into the suspicious area to collect a sample of cells. The cells are then examined under a microscope to determine if they are cancerous. FNAC is often used to diagnose thyroid nodules, breast lumps, and lymph node abnormalities.
Biopsy
A biopsy is a diagnostic procedure that involves removing a small sample of tissue from the body for examination under a microscope. There are several types of biopsies, including needle biopsy, surgical biopsy, and core needle biopsy. Biopsies are used to diagnose a wide range of conditions, including cancer, infections, and autoimmune disorders. The tissue sample is examined for abnormal cell growth, inflammation, and other signs of disease.
Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a laboratory technique used to diagnose and classify cancer and other diseases. IHC involves applying antibodies to a tissue sample to detect specific proteins or markers. The antibodies bind to the proteins, allowing researchers to visualize and identify the cells. IHC is commonly used to diagnose breast cancer, lung cancer, and lymphoma, and to identify biomarkers for targeted therapies.
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a high-throughput sequencing technology used to analyze DNA and RNA sequences. NGS allows researchers to sequence large amounts of genetic material quickly and accurately, enabling the identification of genetic mutations and variations. NGS is commonly used in cancer research to identify driver mutations, monitor treatment response, and develop personalized therapies.
Liquid Biopsy
A liquid biopsy is a non-invasive diagnostic test that involves analyzing circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) or other biomarkers in blood or other bodily fluids. Liquid biopsies are used to diagnose and monitor cancer, as well as to identify genetic mutations and track treatment response. Liquid biopsies offer several advantages over traditional tissue biopsies, including minimal invasiveness, reduced risk of complications, and the ability to monitor cancer in real-time.
The Fish Test, also known as Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH), is a laboratory technique used to detect and locate specific DNA sequences on chromosomes. In cancer diagnosis, FISH is used to identify genetic abnormalities, such as chromosomal translocations, deletions, or amplifications, which can help diagnose and classify various types of cancer.
Here's a brief overview of the Fish Test in cancer diagnosis:
How it works:
1. A sample of tissue or cells is taken from the patient.
2. The sample is then fixed and prepared for FISH analysis.
3. Fluorescent probes that bind to specific DNA sequences are applied to the sample.
4. The sample is then examined under a fluorescence microscope to visualize the probes bound to the chromosomes.
Applications in cancer diagnosis:
1. Leukemia and lymphoma: FISH is used to detect chromosomal translocations, such as the Philadelphia chromosome in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
2. Breast cancer: FISH is used to detect amplification of the HER2 gene, which can help guide treatment decisions.
3. Lung cancer: FISH is used to detect genetic alterations, such as EGFR mutations, which can help guide treatment decisions.
4. Other cancers: FISH can also be used to diagnose and classify other types of cancer, such as bladder cancer, prostate cancer, and melanoma.
Advantages:
1. High sensitivity and specificity: FISH can detect genetic alterations with high accuracy.
2. Rapid results: FISH results can be obtained within a few days.
3. Guides treatment decisions: FISH results can help guide treatment decisions, such as targeted therapies.