A fine needle biopsy (FNAC) works by obtaining single breast cells, or small clusters of cells, which can be easily examined by our Consultant Breast Pathologist. The test often yields just a drop of fluid which is immediately spread onto a glass slide and examined under a microscope.

The fine needle test is very quick and is usually not more uncomfortable than having a blood test. We do not usually use any local anaesthetic as the local anaesthetic itself has to be injected and often stings more than the FNAC test itself.