Computed tomography-guided needle biopsies in pediatric oncology

Abstract Background The use of computed tomography (CT)-guided biopsies facilitate the diagnosis and management in several medical settings. In this study, the authors analyzed how effective cutting and fine-needle biopsies are in pediatric oncology. Methods Medical records of 75 patients were analyzed in retrospect allowing the study of 101 biopsy results. The results of these procedures were compared with clinical follow-up or surgical biopsy results and evaluated for how they affected the patient's treatment. Results CT-guided biopsies altered the treatment in 57 of 75 patients. No major complication occurred. Cutting and fine-needle biopsies are comparable in obtaining adequate material, but cutting needle obtains a superior rate of specific diagnosis. Conclusions CT-guided biopsies are safe procedures that can alter the management of pediatric oncology patients. Cutting and fine-needle biopsies each have one optimal specific use that must be considered to improve their accuracy.