What is the purpose of a biopsy?

The purpose of a biopsy is primarily to obtain a specimen of a suspicious lesion. This procedure involves taking a small sample of tissue from the body to be examined microscopically. By analyzing the tissue, healthcare professionals can diagnose conditions ranging from infections and inflammation to cancer. It is a critical tool in determining the nature of abnormal growths or lesions where the exact pathology is not clear.

In contrast, the other options refer to different medical interventions or evaluations. For instance, removing damaged tissue may be part of other procedures, but not all tissue removal is classified as a biopsy. Evaluating blood flow in tissues relates to techniques like ultrasound or angiography, which are different from tissue sampling. Performing a root canal involves dental intervention to treat tooth decay, not taking tissue specimens. Thus, the role of a biopsy distinctly centers on diagnostic sampling for accurate pathology assessment.