Gynecologic Biopsies

If any abnormalities are found during a pelvic examination or Pap test, your doctor may request a biopsy of your cervical tissue. A cervical biopsy may be performed to detect cancer of the cervix or precancerous lesions of the cervix. Cells that appear to be abnormal, but are not cancerous at the present time, are identified as precancerous. The appearance of these abnormal cells may be the first evidence of cancer that can develop years later. A biopsy involves removing tissue from the cervix, often with the use of a colposcope. There are many different types of cervical biopsies, including a colposcopy, cone biopsy, conization, endocervical curettage (ECC) and a punch biopsy, among others. In addition to removing tissue for testing, some of these procedures may be used to completely remove areas of abnormal tissue and may also be used for treatment of precancerous lesions.