What are the common types of biopsies used in oncology?

Needle biopsy, excisional biopsy, and incisional biopsy are indeed among the most common types of biopsies used in oncology, making this choice the correct response.

A needle biopsy involves using a special needle to extract a sample of tissue or fluid from a suspicious area, which is typically performed under local anesthesia. This method is often utilized for masses that can be accessed percutaneously, making it less invasive and quicker than surgical methods.

Excisional biopsy refers to the surgical removal of an entire lump or suspicious tissue area, while incisional biopsy involves the removal of only a portion of the tissue. These surgical techniques are employed when larger samples are necessary for diagnosis, especially in cases where tumors may be larger or situated deep within the body. Together, these methods provide critical diagnostic information regarding the presence and type of cancer, facilitating appropriate treatment planning.

The other options, while they include various biopsy methods, do not represent the conventional biopsy techniques broadly recognized and utilized in clinical oncology settings. Methods like brush cytology and liquid biopsy are indeed useful but differ in their applications compared to the more traditional methods highlighted in the correct choice.