A [[tissue]] sample, in the context of medical procedures such as [[biopsy]], refers to a small [[piece]] of [[tissue]] that is removed from a person's body for examination under a [[microscope]]. 

Tissue samples are crucial for diagnosing various medical conditions, identifying the nature of abnormalities or lesions, and determining the appropriate course of treatment.

Here are some key points about tissue samples:

Biopsy: The most common method for obtaining tissue samples is through a biopsy. A biopsy involves the removal of a small piece of tissue from a specific area of the body, such as the skin, breast, liver, prostate, or brain. The choice of biopsy method depends on the location of the suspected abnormality.

Types of Biopsies: There are different types of biopsies, including needle biopsies, core biopsies, incisional biopsies, and excisional biopsies. The specific type of biopsy used depends on factors such as the size and location of the lesion.

Purpose: Tissue samples are collected to examine the cellular and molecular characteristics of the tissue. This microscopic analysis helps pathologists identify whether the tissue is normal or abnormal, and if abnormal, the type of abnormality (e.g., cancerous or non-cancerous).

Diagnostic Information: Tissue samples provide valuable diagnostic information. For example, in cancer diagnosis, a biopsy helps determine the type of cancer, its grade, and other characteristics that guide treatment decisions.

Laboratory Analysis: After the tissue sample is collected, it is sent to a pathology laboratory. There, the sample is processed, embedded in paraffin, sliced into thin sections, stained, and examined under a microscope by a pathologist.

Genetic and Molecular Analysis: In addition to traditional microscopic analysis, modern techniques allow for genetic and molecular analysis of tissue samples. This can provide additional information about the genetic mutations or molecular markers associated with certain diseases.

Treatment Planning: The information obtained from tissue sample analysis plays a crucial role in developing a treatment plan. It helps healthcare providers tailor treatments to the specific characteristics of the patient's condition.

Tissue sampling is a fundamental aspect of diagnostic medicine, enabling healthcare professionals to understand the nature of diseases, make accurate diagnoses, and provide appropriate and personalized treatment for patients.