Nasal mucosal biopsy
A nasal mucosal biopsy is the removal of a small piece of tissue from the lining of the nose so that it can be checked for disease.
How the Test is Performed
A painkiller is sprayed into the nose. In some cases, a numbing shot may be used. A small piece of the tissue that appears abnormal is removed and checked for problems in the laboratory.
How to Prepare for the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the biopsy.
How the Test Will Feel
You may feel pressure or tugging when the tissue is removed. After the numbness wears off, the area may be sore for a few days.
A small to moderate amount of bleeding after the procedure is common. If there is bleeding, the blood vessels may be sealed with an electric current, laser, or chemical.
Why the Test is Performed
Nasal mucosal biopsy is usually done when abnormal tissue is seen during examination of the nose. It may also be done when the health care provider suspects you have a problem affecting the mucosal tissue of the nose.
Normal Results
The tissue in the nose is normal.
Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
- Cancer
- Infections such as tuberculosis
- Necrotizing granuloma, a type of tumor
- Nasal polyps
- Nasal tumors
- Sarcoidosis
- Wegener's disease (Wegener's granulomatosis)
Risks
- Bleeding from the biopsy site
- Infection
Considerations
Avoid blowing your nose after the biopsy. Gently squeeze the nostrils shut if there is bleeding. If there is bleeding, the blood vessels may be sealed with an electric current or packing.
Alternative Names
Biopsy - nasal mucosa; Nose biopsy
References
Posner MR. Head and neck cancer. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 196.
Stavinoha R, McCaffrey TV. Nasal manifestations of systemic disease. In: Flint PW, Haughey BH, Lund LJ, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2010:chap 43.
Update Date: 8/31/2011
Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Seth Schwartz, MD, MPH, Otolaryngologist, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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