Performing of biopsy from colon mucosa - one nidus (1–5 biopsy slices) (differential diagnostics of colitis)

Biopsy of the colonic mucosa involves taking small samples of tissue from the lining of the colon for examination for inflammation, infection, or other pathological changes. This procedure plays an important role in the differential diagnosis of colitis, which refers to inflammation of the colon and can arise from various causes, including inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, infections, or ischemic colitis. At "Dobrobut", experienced gastroenterologists employ advanced techniques for accurate execution of this procedure and help develop precise treatment plans for patients.

When to Consult a Doctor

Patients should seek medical assistance if they experience any of the following symptoms:

Persistent abdominal pain that does not improve over time and may indicate the need for further evaluation.
Unexplained significant weight loss without efforts, as well as changes in appetite, which may signal serious gastrointestinal problems.
Frequent episodes of diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between both, and other changes in bowel habits (e.g., blood or mucus present) require medical assessment.
Nausea and vomiting, especially when accompanied by abdominal discomfort, which could indicate gastrointestinal issues.
Discomfort or difficulty swallowing may indicate structural or functional disorders in the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Significant decrease in appetite or changes in the ability to tolerate certain foods also require evaluation.

Differential Diagnosis of Colitises

With the help of biopsy of the colonic mucosa, several types of colitis can be diagnosed and differentiated, among which are:

Ulcerative Colitis: A chronic inflammatory disease causing ulcers on the colonic mucosa.
Crohn's Disease: It can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the colon, causing deep inflammatory damage.
Infectious Colitis: Develops due to bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, which can be confirmed by biopsy.
Ischemic Colitis: Arises due to reduced blood supply; biopsy may reveal characteristic changes in tissue.
Allergic/Eosinophilic Colitis: Associated with allergic reactions or an increased number of eosinophils.

Indications and Contraindications

Colonoscopy for biopsy is indicated for diagnosing, assessing, or excluding conditions that affect the colon. Common indications include:

Inflammatory bowel diseases: ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease

Colorectal Cancer:
Colonic Polyps:
Microscopic Colitis:
Infectious Colitis:
Chronic Diarrhea or unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms:
Ischemia of the Colon.

Colonoscopy for biopsy is typically performed during colonoscopy procedures, which allows for direct visualization and targeted sampling of suspicious areas. Such tests provide important information for the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal diseases.

Contraindications may include severe acute colitis, bleeding disorders, and a high risk of perforation.

Diagnosis

To confirm the necessity of a biopsy of the colonic mucosa, the doctor conducts a detailed discussion about symptoms and reviews the medical history, performs a physical examination, and uses instrumental studies to visualize pathological changes in the intestine (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), along with laboratory tests: blood tests, markers of inflammation and anemia, which help to understand the overall health status of the patient.

Preparation

Preparation for the biopsy includes several steps:

Consultation: Discussing the details of the procedure, expectations, and potential risks.
Instructions regarding food and drink intake: Patients are typically advised to refrain from food and drink for a specific time before the procedure.
Review of medications: The doctor will assess which medications the patient is currently taking and may recommend discontinuing certain medications before the procedure.
Bowel cleansing procedures: It's important to ensure clear views of the mucosa during the biopsy.

How the Procedure is Performed

The entire colonoscopy procedure, which includes biopsy, usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes. The actual time of insertion and examination may vary depending on factors such as the anatomical features of the patient, the presence of any abnormalities, and the need for any interventions.

The biopsy itself, during which tissue samples are taken from the colonic mucosa, typically takes only a few minutes. During the colonoscopy, if any suspicious polyps or lesions are detected, the endoscopist can quickly capture them using specialized instruments to obtain samples for histological examination.

Most patients receive sedation during the procedure, so additional time may be required for observation and recovery after sedation.

The biopsy of the colonic mucosa generally involves the following stages:

Anesthesia: Depending on the specifics of the procedure, local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia is used to ensure maximum patient comfort.
Colonoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera and instruments is inserted into the rectum to access the colon.
Sample Collection: Under direct visual control, specialized biopsy forceps are used to take small tissue samples from suspicious areas.
Completion: The colonoscope is gently withdrawn, and patients remain under observation until they fully recover from sedation.

Recovery after colonic mucosa biopsy focuses on ensuring patient comfort and may include: observation, gradual return to regular diet, possible administration of analgesics, and follow-up visits to discuss biopsy results and the subsequent treatment strategy.

Complications

Complications are rare and may include: infectious complications, bleeding, perforation, and reactions to sedation.

In the "Dobrobut" clinics, we strive to provide high-quality assistance during gastrointestinal biopsy procedures. The team of experienced specialists utilizes advanced methods to ensure patient comfort and diagnostic accuracy.

Appointments for consultations regarding biopsy procedures can be made through the form on the website or by contacting the call center.