MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Oropharynx lesion biopsy

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

Oropharynx lesion biopsy

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test How the test will feel	Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are Special considerations

Illustrations

Throat anatomy

Oropharyngeal biopsy

Alternative names Return to top

Throat lesion biopsy; Biopsy - mouth or throat; Mouth lesion biopsy

Definition Return to top

An oropharynx lesion biopsy is a diagnostic procedure in which tissue from an abnormal growth or lesion (such as a mouth sore) is removed for analysis.

How the test is performed Return to top

A local or topical anesthetic is usually used (for large lesions or lesions of the throat, a general anesthetic may be needed). The entire lesion, or a small portion of larger lesions, is removed and sent to the laboratory for analysis. If a growth is present in the mouth or throat, this test may be part of tumor removal/resection.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

If a local or topical anesthetic is to be used, there is no special preparation. If the test is to be part of a tumor removal or if general anesthetic is to be used, fasting for 6 to 8 hours may be necessary.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel Return to top

After the anesthetic wears off, the area may be tender or sore for a few days.

Why the test is performed Return to top

This test is performed to determine the specific cause of a lesion in the mouth.

Normal Values Return to top

This test is only performed when there is an abnormal lesion (abnormal tissue area).

What abnormal results mean Return to top

histoplasmosis
fungal infections (such as Candida)
viral infections (such as Herpes simplex)
cancer of the oropharynx (such as squamous cell carcinoma)
Precancerous lesion (leukoplakia)

Oral lichen planus is an additional condition under which the test may be performed.

What the risks are Return to top

infection of the site
bleeding from the site

Special considerations Return to top

Avoid hot or spicy food after the biopsy.

Update Date: 10/27/2003

Updated by: James L. Demetroulakos M.D. F.A.C.S., Department Of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.