Rectal biopsy

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Anal biopsy

A rectal biopsy is a procedure to remove a small piece of rectal (anal) tissue for examination.

Biopsy - rectum

A rectal biopsy is usually part of anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.

A digital rectal exam is first done to make sure there isn't anything blocking the rectal area. After this is done, a lubricated instrument (anoscope, rectal speculum, or proctoscope) is placed into the rectum. You will feel some pressure when this is done.

A biopsy can be taken through any of these instruments.

A laxative, enema, or other preparation may be given prior to the biopsy so that you can completely empty your bowels.

There will be some pressure during the procedure, and you may feel an urge to have a bowel movement. A small amount of cramping sometimes occurs as the instrument is placed into the rectal area, but there should be little pain.

A rectal biopsy is used to determine the cause of abnormal growths found during anoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or other tests. It can also be used to confirm the diagnosis of amyloidosis.

Review Date: 10/16/2006
Reviewed By: J.A. Lee, M.D., Division of Surgery, UCSF, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.