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Upper airway biopsy

Definition

Upper airway biopsy is surgery in which a small piece of tissue is removed from the upper airway (nose, mouth, throat) for examination.

Alternative Names

Biopsy - upper airway

How the test is performed

The health care provider will spray a numbing agent in your mouth and throat. A metal tube is inserted to hold the tongue out of the way.

Another numbing agent is injected through the tube down the back of the throat. This may cause coughing at first. When the area feels thick or swollen, it is numb.

The abnormal area is viewed, and a small piece of tissue is removed. It is sent to the laboratory for examination.

How to prepare for the test

Do not eat for 6 - 12 hours before the test. You must sign an informed consent form.

How the test will feel

As the area is being numbed, there may be a feeling of fluid running down the back of the throat. You may feel the need to cough or gag. There may be feelings of pressure or mild tugging.

When the numbness wears off, your throat may feel scratchy for several days. After the test, the cough reflex will return in 1 - 2 hours. Then you may eat and drink normally.

Why the test is performed

This test may be may be done when your doctor thinks there may be a problem or defect. It may also be done as part of a bronchoscopy when defects are in the upper airway as well as the lung tissue.

Normal Values

There are normal upper airway tissues, with no abnormal growths.

What abnormal results mean

Disorders or conditions that may be discovered include:

• Granulomas (may be caused by tuberculosis)
• Granulomatous inflammation (may be caused by tuberculosis)
• Necrotizing vasculitis
• Cancer

What the risks are

• Sore throat
• Breathing difficulties
• Bleeding (some bleeding is common, excessive bleeding is not)

There is a risk of choking if water or food is swallowed before the numbness wears off.

Review Date:7/25/2007
Reviewed By:James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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