MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Cervical biopsy

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Cervical 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

Female reproductive anatomy

Cervical biopsy

Cold cone biopsy

Colposcopy-directed biopsy

Uterus

Alternative names Return to top

Cervical punch biopsy; Biopsy - cervical punch; Biopsy of the cervix

Definition Return to top

A cervical biopsy is a test in which tissue samples are taken from the cervix (see also colposcopy directed biopsy) and examined for disease or other problems.

How the test is performed Return to top

You will be asked to lie on your back with your feet in the stirrups. As in a regular pelvic examination, a speculum (an instrument used to hold the birth canal open in order to examine the interior) will be inserted into the vagina and opened slightly so that the cervix is visible.

The area is then viewed with a colposcope, a small low-power microscope used to magnify the surface of the vagina and cervix (the most accurate method). The cervix is swabbed with a vinegar solution (acetic acid), which removes the mucus to help highlight abnormal areas. The colposcope is then positioned at the opening of the vagina and the area is examined. Photographs may be taken.

An alternative method is the Schiller's test, which uses an iodine solution to stain the cervix. The stain is inserted through the speculum. The iodine solution stains the normal portions of the cervix, but does not stain abnormal tissues.

When an abnormality is located, a sample (biopsy) may be taken using a small biopsy forceps or a large needle. More than one sample may be taken. When the procedure is completed, all the instruments are removed.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

There is no special preparation. Before the procedure, you should empty your bladder and bowel for your comfort. Do not douche or have sexual intercourse for 24 hours before the exam.

How the test will feel Return to top

A colposcopy is painless. The biopsy may feel like a pinch each time a tissue sample is taken and may cause some cramping with it. Any pain or cramping occurring during the biopsy may be helped by relaxing and taking a few slow deep breaths.

Some cramping may occur after the biopsy. (Many women have a tendency to hold their breath during pelvic procedures in anticipation of pain. Making an effort to concentrate on slow, regular breathing will help you relax and reduce or eliminate some pain).

Why the test is performed Return to top

A cervical biopsy is usually performed when a pap smear indicates significant abnormalities or when an abnormal area is seen on the cervix during a routine pelvic examination. The biopsy identifies the abnormality (When a positive pap smear shows minor cell changes or abnormalities, a biopsy probably will not be done immediately, unless there is a reason to believe you may be in a high-risk category. It is usually recommended that a repeat pap smear be done in 6 months).

Normal Values Return to top

The tissue sample from the cervical biopsy will be examined by a pathologist who will report to your doctor whether the cells appear normal or abnormal.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Abnormal results of the biopsy may indicate problems, such as abnormal tissue development or cell growth in the cervix (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia), or an invasive carcinoma (cancer).

Colposcopy may be used to keep track of precancerous abnormalities and look for recurrent abnormalities after treatment. Abnormalities that may be noted and either biopsied or monitored include any abnormal patterns in the blood vessels, whitish patches on the cervix, and areas that are inflamed, eroded, or atrophic (tissue wasting away).

Additional findings may indicate:

What the risks are Return to top

There may be some bleeding after the biopsy for up to a week. Avoid sexual intercourse, douching, or using tampons for a week to allow the cervix to heal.

Special considerations Return to top

When the colposcopic examination or biopsy does not show why the pap smear was abnormal, a more extensive biopsy may be suggested.

Update Date: 5/4/2004

Updated by: Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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