Invasive

Definition

An invasive disease is one that spreads to surrounding tissues. An invasive procedure is one in which the body is "invaded" or entered by a needle, tube, device, or scope.

Reviewed on May 2, 2009 by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.