|
|
Gum biopsy |
| Definition: |
| A gum biopsy is a diagnostic procedure in which a small piece of gingival (gum) tissue is removed for examination.
|
| Alternative Names: |
| Biopsy - gingiva (gums) |
| How the test is performed: |
| A topical anesthetic may (or may not) be sprayed in the mouth on the suspicious area of gum tissue (in some cases injection of local anesthesia may be required). A small piece of the gum tissue is removed using a biopsy forcep and sent to the laboratory for examination. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
| Adults: There is no special preparation, although fasting for a few hours before the test may be advisable. Infants and children: The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
|
| How the test will feel: |
| The topical anesthetic, if used, should numb the area during the procedure, although some tugging or pressure may be felt. After the anesthetic wears off, the area may be tender for a few days. |
| Why the test is performed: |
| This test is performed when examination of the mouth reveals abnormal-appearing gum tissue, particularly if amyloid or other abnormality is suspected. |
| Normal Values: |
| This test is only performed when there is an abnormality. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
|
| What the risks are: |
| Special considerations: |
|
Avoid brushing the biopsy area for 1 week. |
Reviewed By: Ashutosh Kacker, M.D., Department of Otolaryngology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
 |
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch). |
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
