Biopsy: What You Need to Know

A biopsy is a type of test used to diagnose cancer, among other things. A small sample of tissue is removed and then examined under a microscope. This test may be used to diagnose cancer or to see whether or not existing cancer has spread to the surrounding tissue. A biopsy is needed to diagnose colorectal cancer. Often, it is done during a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy.

What Happens During a Biopsy?

If your doctor identifies an area during the sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy that needs to be biopsied, he or she will take a sample from that area. Once a sample has been gathered, the sample is sent to the pathology laboratory for evaluation.

What Happens After a Biopsy

The aftereffects of a biopsy are generally mild. Slight discomfort and light bleeding are to be expected. However, infections and injuries to the colon or rectum do occasionally occur.

You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Severe pain
• Heavy bleeding (greater than a teaspoon at a time)
• Fever or chills

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center.