Colon Biopsy
The most visible indication of potential colorectal cancer is a polyp located within the colon. However, a colonoscopy may reveal that the colon contains no polyps. While this is good, it unfortunately does not rule out the potential of colorectal cancer, and your gastroenterologist will want to do another test to be certain. He may call for a colon biopsy, allowing for a total diagnosis of any colorectal condition. At the Colorectal Center Los Angeles, we are proud to provide among the finest colon cancer screening Beverly Hills has available.
A biopsy is the term used to describe a sample of tissue obtained by a doctor for the purpose of examination and subsequent diagnosis of a condition or disease. A biopsy may be done on the colon or rectum during the course of a colonoscopy.
The tissue sample is then sent to a pathologist who will perform lab examinations to test for disease. This is done by looking at the sample under a microscope as well as other tests.
Conditions that may be detected by a colon biopsy include:
- Colorectal cancer
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
How is a biopsy done?
A biopsy is done in the course of a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Both of these procedures involve the insertion of a long, flexible tube into the rectum so the colon may be examined. In the case of a colon biopsy, a tool is affixed to the end of the tube that allows the doctor to collect a tissue sample while the scope is in the colon. While this sounds painful, it is almost completely painless, as the mucous membrane in the colon does not contain many pain receptors.
If you need a colon biopsy and have further questions, please call the Colorectal Center Los Angeles. We are a fully accredited facility with board-certified doctors and gastroenterologists and are equipped to deliver the most thorough colon cancer screening in Los Angeles.
