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April 2025
Principal Consultant
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The global virtual biopsy market size is calculated at USD 0.77 billion in 2024, grow to USD 0.88 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach around USD 2.96 billion by 2034, rising at a 14.5% CAGR for the forecasted period of 2024 to 2034.
| Metric | Details |
| Market Size in 2024 | USD 0.77 Billion |
| Projected Market Size in 2034 | USD 2.96 Billion |
| CAGR (2025 - 2034) | 14.5% |
| Leading Region | North America |
| Market Segmentation | Target Therapeutic Area, Type of Cancer Targeted, Type of Imaging technologies, End users, Region |
| Top Key Players |
Hologic, Inc, Danaher Corporation, Becton, Dickinson, and Company, Medtronic plc, Olympus Corporation, CONMED Corporation, GE Healthcare, Koninklijke Pjilips N.V., FUJIPFILMS Corporation, Siemens Healthineers, Hitachi, Ltd |
A virtual biopsy is a non-invasive method used to diagnose medical conditions, offering advantages over conventional tissue biopsies. Instead of physically removing tissue samples, it analyzes tissue features through advanced imaging technologies such as MRI or CT scans, often combined with molecular-level assessments. This approach helps detect abnormalities without the need for surgical procedures. The virtual biopsy market is expected to grow significantly, largely due to improvements in imaging technologies and data storage capabilities. These developments allow healthcare providers and researchers to capture and store high-resolution images for more accurate analysis. The use of advanced imaging methods like MRI, ultrasound, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) to obtain detailed 3D and high-contrast images is also playing a key role in accelerating market expansion.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to transform the virtual biopsy market by offering faster, more accurate, and non-invasive diagnostic solutions. By analyzing medical imaging such as MRI, CT, or PET scans, AI can detect patterns and abnormalities that might be missed by the human eye, enabling earlier and more precise diagnosis. This technology reduces the need for traditional tissue biopsies, minimizing patient discomfort and the risk of complications. Additionally, AI can integrate imaging data with other patient information, such as genetic profiles and medical history, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the disease and support personalized treatment planning. It also allows real-time monitoring of disease progression, helping doctors make timely adjustments to treatment strategies. Overall, AI-powered virtual biopsies can significantly lower healthcare costs, improve diagnostic speed, and enhance patient outcomes, marking a major advancement in modern medicine.
The growing demand for non-invasive diagnostic solutions
The virtual biopsy market is primarily driven by the growing demand for non-invasive diagnostic solutions that can replace traditional tissue biopsies, which are often painful, risky, and time-consuming. Advances in imaging technologies such as MRI, CT PET scans, and optical coherence with the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning are enabling more accurate and real-time analysis of tissue without the need for surgical interventions. The rising global incidence of cancer, where early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Additionally, the increasing push for healthcare digitization and the shift toward telemedicine have created a favorable environment for biopsies, as they are often cost-effective, efficient, and remotely accessible diagnostic options and further contribute to market growth.
High cost of advanced imaging technologies
The major factor that affects the growth of the virtual biopsy market is expensive advanced imaging and AI technologies, limiting access to smaller facilities. Lack of standardization and limited clinical validation raise reliable concerns. Regulatory challenges slow approvals, while skepticism among healthcare professionals hinders adoption. Data privacy issues and compliance with laws like HIPAA further complicate implementation. Additionally, the need for specialized training restricts the widespread use of virtual biopsy solutions across healthcare systems.
Rising adoption of personalized medicine
The increasing adoption of personalized medicine is a major opportunistic factor for the market. As precision medicine grows, there is a need for more accurate, individualized diagnostic methods, which virtual biopsies can provide. Moreover, the expansion of telemedicine and remote healthcare services creates demand for non-invasive diagnostic tools that can be used outside of traditional clinical settings. The integration of AI and machine learning into virtual biopsy systems offers further potential for improving diagnostic accuracy, enhancing decision-making, and streamlining workflows. Additionally, collaborations between healthcare providers and technology companies can lead to more innovative solutions, creating new avenues for growth in the virtual biopsy market.
By target therapeutic area, the oncological disorders segment held a dominant presence in the market in 2024 due to the rising global cancer incidence and the increasing need for non-invasive diagnostic methods. Virtual biopsies offer early, accurate cancer detection with minimal patient discomfort, enabling better treatment with minimal patient discomfort, enabling better treatment outcomes. Additionally, their ability to monitor disease progression and assess treatment response made them highly valuable in oncology. As cancer remains a primary focus in healthcare, the adoption of virtual biopsy technologies continues to drive growth in this segment.
By type of cancer targeted, the breast cancer segment held a significant share in 2024. The growing awareness and advancement in breast cancer screening technologies are the major factors. With increasing global efforts to promote early detection and prevention, virtual biopsies provide a promising solution for identifying abnormalities without invasive procedures. Additionally, the high demand for non-invasive and accurate diagnostic methods in breast cancer care, combined with the rising use of AI for improved imaging and analysis, has contributed to segment dominance in the virtual biopsy market.
By type of cancer targeted, the prostate cancer segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate in the market during the studied years due to the rising incidence of prostate cancer, especially in aging populations. Prostate cancer diagnostics traditionally rely on invasive procedures, but virtual biopsy offers a less invasive, more patient-friendly alternative. The growing adoption of AI-driven imaging technologies for more accurate detection and monitoring of prostate cancer, along with the increasing demand for early-stage diagnosis, is driving the rapid growth of this segment. Additionally, advancements in personalized medicine and targeted therapies further support the demand for non-invasive diagnostic methods in prostate cancer care.
By type of imaging technologies, the computed tomography segment was dominant in the market in 2024. The widespread use, high resolution, and ability to provide detailed cross-sectional images of tissue and organs dominate the market. CT scans are particularly effective in detecting and characterizing tumors, making them essential for virtual biopsy applications, especially in oncology. The technology’s non-invasive nature, combined with advancements in AI and image analysis, enhances diagnostic accuracy, driving its adoption in various medical conditions. As CT continues to be a standard tool for diagnosis, its dominance in the virtual biopsy market is expected to persist.
By type of imaging technologies, the magnetic resonance imaging segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the coming years due to its superior soft tissue imaging capabilities, making it highly effective for detecting tumors and abnormalities in organs like the brain, liver, and prostate. MRI offers detailed, high-resolution images without the use of ionizing radiation, with a significant advantage for patients requiring repeated scans. Additionally, the integration of advanced AI algorithms with MRI technology for more precise diagnosis and real-time monitoring of disease progression is driving its rapid adoption, especially in oncology and neurology. As healthcare continues to prioritize non-invasive and accurate diagnostic methods, MRI’s role in virtual biopsy is poised for significant growth.
By end users, the hospital and clinics segment held the highest share of the market in 2024. These healthcare settings have the necessary infrastructure, advanced imaging technologies, and specialized medical professionals to adopt and implement the virtual biopsy method. Hospitals and clinics are the primary points of contact for patients with conditions like cancer, where early and accurate diagnosis is crucial. The growing demand for non-invasive diagnostic techniques, along with the ability of these institutions to invest in cutting-edge technologies, contributes to the segment dominance. Furthermore, hospitals and clinics often lead in integrating AI and advanced imaging technologies, making them a key driver of the virtual biopsy market growth.
By end users, the diagnostic centers segment is estimated to grow at the fastest rate during the predicted timeframe, due to their specialized focus on diagnostics services, which positions them to adopt advanced technologies like virtual biopsies more rapidly. These centers are equipped with state-of-the-art imaging equipment and are often more flexible and quicker to integrate new technologies compared to larger hospitals. The increasing demand for non-invasive, accurate, and timely diagnostic solutions in cancer and other diseases drives the growth of diagnostic centers, as they cater to a wide range of patients seeking specialized testing. Additionally, the lower operational costs compared to hospitals make diagnostic centers a key driver in the adoption of virtual biopsy technologies.3
North America dominated the global virtual biopsy market in 2024 due to advanced healthcare infrastructure, high prevalence of cancer, and growing demand for non-invasive diagnostic techniques. Strong research and development investments, along with favorable regulatory frameworks, supported rapid innovation and adoption. Further technological advancement makes the region a leader in virtual biopsy solutions and a major contribution to global market growth.
The U.S. market is experiencing significant growth due to rising cancer cases and increasing demand for non-invasive, accurate diagnostic methods. Virtual biopsies offer quicker, safer alternatives to traditional procedures, enhancing patient comfort and early detection. Strong healthcare infrastructure, substantial R and D investments, favorable regulatory support, and the presence of key medical technology companies further drive innovation and adoption, positioning the U.S. as a major contributor to global market expansion.
The market in Canada is growing due to advancements in imaging technologies and AI, offering safer, non-invasive alternatives to traditional methods. Rising cancer and chronic disease rates, along with increased demand for efficient diagnostics, fuel this trend. Government support, healthcare digitization, and cost-effectiveness further boost adoption. Digital health tools are more widely accepted, making virtual biopsies a key component in Canada’s evolving healthcare landscape.
Asia-Pacific is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR in the market during the forecast period due to to increasing adoption of advanced medical technologies and rapid healthcare infrastructure development. The region's large and aging population, along with increasing cancer prevalence, is driving demand for non-invasive diagnostic solutions. Government initiatives supporting digital health care, growing awareness, and expanding medical tourism are further boosting the market. Additionally, increased investment in AI, imaging technologies, and research is accelerating the region's growth.
China’s market is growing due to its rapid urbanization and increasing middle-class population, which is driving the demand for high-quality, tech-enabling healthcare services. The country’s focus on boosting a global leader in AI and biotechnology is accelerating innovation and the domestic development of virtual biopsy tools. Additionally, China is seeing a rise in private healthcare institutions that are more agile in adopting diagnostic technologies, further boosting market penetration across diverse regions.
India’s market is growing due to a combination of rising healthcare awareness, a burgeoning digital health ecosystem, and a surge in lifestyle-related diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions. The government's push for initiatives like Digital India and Ayushman Bharat is enhancing healthcare access and encouraging the use of AI-driven diagnostics. Additionally, India's strong IT sector and increasing collaboration between tech startups and medical institutions are driving innovation and the adoption of virtual biopsy technologies.
Europe is expected to see significant growth in the virtual biopsy market during the forecast period due to its strong focus on research and development in healthcare technologies, particularly in countries like Germany, the UK, and France. The region's Well-established healthcare system is increasingly integrating AI-driven diagnostic tools to improve accuracy and reduce costs. Additionally, the regulatory framework in Europe supports innovation, encouraging the adoption of non-invasive diagnostic methods. Rising healthcare expenditure, coupled with the demand for more efficient cancer screening and personalized treatment, further contributes to the market’s growth.
The growth of the German market can be attributed to its strong private healthcare sector, which is quicker to adopt cutting-edge technologies. The country is a hub for health tech startups and collaboration between technology and healthcare companies, driving the development of advanced diagnostic tools like virtual biopsies. Additionally, Germany’s focus on reducing healthcare costs by minimizing invasive procedures is fueling demand for non-invasive alternatives such as virtual biopsies. The increasing shift towards preventive care also plays a significant role in market expansion.
France's market is expanding due to its strategic push toward modernizing healthcare through digital transformation. The government investment in AI-driven medical technology and funding for innovation under initiatives like “France 2023” are accelerating adoption. Additionally, France has a strong network of university hospitals and research institutions that are actively involved in clinical studies and tech integration. The growing emphasis on early cancer detection and reducing pressure on traditional pathology services also support market growth.
In April 2024, Stanford Medicine researchers unveiled a groundbreaking noninvasive "virtual biopsy" technique that uses lasers to create high-resolution 3D images of tissue, potentially replacing traditional pathology slides. “We’ve not only created something that can replace the current gold-standard pathology slides, but we improved the resolution... picking up information that would be extremely hard to see otherwise,” said Dr. Adam de la Zerda, senior author of the study.
By Target therapeutic area
By Type of cancer targeted
By Type of imaging technologies
By End users
By Region
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