Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
|
Alternative names Return to top
Biopsy - rectumDefinition Return to top
A rectal biopsy is a procedure in which a small piece of rectal (anal) tissue is removed for diagnostic examination.
How the test is performed Return to top
A rectal biopsy is usually part of anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.
First, a digital rectal examination is performed. The doctor inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to determine if anything will block the insertion of the anoscope.
A lubricated anoscope (or sometimes a rectal speculum or proctoscope) is then inserted, which will cause some pressure.
A biopsy can be taken through any of these scopes. The scope is a short tube with a light attached; it enlarges the rectum to allow the doctor to view the entire anal canal. Anesthetic is introduced through the anoscope, then biopsy forceps, a cytology brush, culture swab, or suction catheter is introduced through the anoscope to take a sample. Afterward, the scope is slowly removed.
How to prepare for the test Return to top
You will need to defecate before the procedure and a laxative, enema, or other preparation may be administered.How the test will feel Return to top
There will be some pressure during the procedure, and you may feel an urge to defecate. A small amount of cramping sometimes occurs as the anoscope is inserted, but there should be little pain.
Why the test is performed Return to top
A rectal biopsy is used to determine the cause of abnormal growths found on anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or other tests. It can also be used to confirm the diagnosis of amyloidosis.
Normal Values Return to top
The anus and rectum appear normal in size, color, and shape. There should be no evidence of bleeding, polyps, hemorrhoids, or other abnormalities. On microscopic examination of biopsy tissue, no abnormalities should be noted.
What abnormal results mean Return to top
This test is one of the more common means to confirm amyloidosis. It also determines the specific causes of abnormal conditions of the rectum, such as colitis. Other findings could include colorectal polyps, abscesses, inflammation, infection, hemorrhoids, or tumors.
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed include the following:
What the risks are Return to top
There is some risk of bleeding, pain, and perforation. Occasionally, patients have problems with urinary retention after rectal biopsy.
Update Date: 12/30/2002 Updated by: Hebe Molmenti, M.D., Ph.D., Private Practice specializing in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Home | Health Topics | Drug Information | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Selection Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |