Which diagnostic tool is often used to guide biopsies in suspected tumors?

Ultrasound is frequently employed as a diagnostic tool to guide biopsies in suspected tumors due to its real-time imaging capabilities and ability to differentiate between various tissues. This modality allows veterinary oncologists to visualize tumors and surrounding structures, which is essential for accurately targeting the area for biopsy. The high resolution provided by ultrasound helps in assessing the characteristics of the tumor, such as its size, location, and proximity to vital structures, thereby improving the precision and effectiveness of the biopsy procedure.

In contrast, CT scans, while providing detailed cross-sectional images of the body, are typically used for comprehensive assessments or evaluations of tumor extent rather than for guiding needle biopsies directly. X-rays may show gross tumor presence but lack the necessary detail for biopsy guidance, and blood tests, while useful for assessing systemic health or tumor markers, do not provide imaging to target tissues for biopsy procedures. Thus, ultrasound remains the preferred choice for guiding biopsies in the context of suspected tumors.