A duodenal tissue biopsy is obtained via an upper endoscopy. You may be given a sedative to relieve anxiety and discomfort before this test. A local anesthetic is sprayed into the mouth and throat.

A flexible fiberoptic tube is passed through the mouth, the esophagus, and the stomach before it enters the duodenum. This tube allows the physician to see the upper intestinal tract and take a biopsy of certain areas of the duodenum. The sample is then sent for laboratory and pathology examination.

You should not consume any food or fluid for 12 hours before the procedure.

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this procedure depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

• Infant test/procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• Toddler test/procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test/procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• Schoolage test/procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test/procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

Abnormal findings include the presence of the following:

• Certain bacteria, such as H. pylori (in particular if ulcers are present)
• Pathogenic microorganisms resulting in gastroenteritis
  • salmonella
  • campylobacter
  • giardia
  • entamoeba