DefinitionA pleural biopsy is a procedure to remove a sample of the tissue lining the lungs and the inside of the chest wall to check for disease or infection.Alternative NamesClosed pleural biopsy; Needle biopsy of the pleuraHow the test is performedThis test does not have to be done in the hospital. It may be done at a clinic or doctor's office.You will be sitting up for the biopsy. The health care provider will cleanse the skin at the biopsy site, and inject a local numbing drug (anesthetic) through the skin and into the lining of the lungs and chest wall (pleural membrane).A larger, hollow needle is then placed through the skin and into the chest cavity. The doctor rotates the needle. At various times during the procedure, you will be asked to sing, hum, or say "eee." This helps preven