What does friable on biopsy mean?

"Friable" on biopsy refers to tissue that is easily broken apart or crumbled. This characteristic often indicates that the tissue is unhealthy, possibly due to inflammation, infection, or malignancy. In the context of a biopsy, friable tissue may raise concern for certain conditions, as it can suggest a more aggressive or advanced disease process. Pathologists often note this feature to provide additional context for diagnosis and treatment planning.