Can you start chemotherapy before biopsy?

Typically, a biopsy is performed before starting chemotherapy or other treatments for cancer. A biopsy is a procedure where a small sample of tissue or cells is taken from the affected area to examine under a microscope for signs of cancer or other abnormalities. This helps healthcare professionals make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment. Starting chemotherapy without a definitive diagnosis can lead to the wrong treatment being prescribed or may not be effective for the underlying condition. Therefore, a biopsy is generally done first before starting chemotherapy.