In a postmenopausal woman with an atrophic endometrium and no focal lesion on ultrasound scan, the presence of scant endometrial tissue in an outpatient biopsy is the norm. When an endometrial biopsy is carried out for abnormal uterine bleeding, the pathologist should always consider the possibility of a polyp.

What is scant endometrial tissue?

endometrium, scant tissue is the norm- usually. superficial strips of endometrial glands. • examine under high power to look for mitotic activity. (abnormal in postmenopausal) and atypia. • often take longer to assess than intact biopsies.

What is a scant specimen?

Reasons for a pathologist to report a sample as scant or insufficient may include: minimal or insufficient tissue for the patients age (i.e. reproductive age woman should have more than scant tissue on a biopsy), abundant blood, crush artifact, cervical tissue only, endocervical polyp, or granulation tissue.

What are the possible findings in an endometrial biopsy?

Biopsy results may show cell changes linked to hormone levels, or abnormal tissues, such as fibroids or polyps. These can lead to abnormal bleeding. Your provider can also use endometrial biopsy to check for uterine infections, such as endometritis.

How much tissue is needed for endometrial biopsy?

Guidelines suggest that if results of pelvic ultrasound show endometrial thickness of 5 mm or more, it is advisable to perform an endometrial biopsy. If the lining thickness is less than 5 mm, likelihood of endometrial cancer is extremely low.

Are endometrial biopsies common?

An endometrial biopsy is the most common and accurate test used to diagnose endometrial cancer. The lab should have the results in about a week.

Should I be worried about endometrial biopsy?

While an endometrial biopsy is safe, there is a chance of bleeding and infection. The wall of your uterus could also get nicked by the tools used during the biopsy, but this is very rare. If you think you may be pregnant, make sure to tell your doctor ahead of time. The biopsy could cause you to miscarry.

What if my endometrial biopsy is abnormal?

Your doctor may perform a hysteroscopy with dilatation and curettage if the results of an endometrial biopsy are inconclusive or the doctor couldnt obtain enough tissue for a biopsy. In this procedure, the doctor widens the opening of the cervix with thin, metal rods called dilators.

Are endometrial biopsies painful?

Is endometrial biopsy painful? It can be uncomfortable. The placement of the thin plastic catheter inside the uterus can produce cramping. Take four 200-mg tablets of ibuprofen (brand names: Advil, Motrin, Nuprin) with some food about an hour before coming to the office for the procedure.

How long does it take for endometrial biopsy results to come back?

An endometrial biopsy is the most common and accurate test used to diagnose endometrial cancer. The lab should have the results in about a week. Your physician will share the results with you and go over a treatment plan depending on the results. Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 01/04/2021.

How long does an endometrial biopsy take to come back?

An endometrial biopsy is the most common and accurate test used to diagnose endometrial cancer. The lab should have the results in about a week. Your physician will share the results with you and go over a treatment plan depending on the results. Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 01/04/2021.

How long does it take for your cervix to heal after a biopsy?

During a cone biopsy, your doctor will remove a small, cone-shaped part of your cervix. They will study it under a microscope to look for abnormal cells. It usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks for your cervix to heal after this procedure.

What do they put on your cervix after a biopsy?

Acetic acid or vinegar is placed on the cervix and vagina to stain the cells and to allow the clinician to better see where the abnormal cells are located and the size of any abnormal areas. The size, type, and location of abnormal cells help to determine which area or areas may need to be biopsied.