Culture - gastric tissue biopsy
Key points
- This is an examination of a sample of gastric (stomach) tissue for culture to aid in determining the presence of certain microorganisms which may be playing a role in certain diseases.
- Gastric tissue biopsy is obtained via an upper endoscopy.
- No food or fluid may be ingested for 6 to 12 hours before the test.
- The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience.
Alternative names
Gastric tissue culture
Definition
This is an examination of a sample of gastric (stomach) tissue for culture to aid in determining the presence of certain microorganisms which may be playing a role in certain diseases.
How the test is performed
Gastric tissue biopsy is obtained via an upper endoscopy. You may be given a sedative (or narcotic) to relieve anxiety and discomfort before this test. A local anesthetic is sprayed into the mouth and throat area.
A flexible fiberoptic tube is passed through the mouth, down the esophagus, and enters the stomach. The tube may pass through to the duodenum if necessary. The tube allows the health care provider to see the various parts of the upper intestinal tract and take a biopsy (sample) of certain areas. The sample is then sent for laboratory and pathology examination.
How to prepare for the test
No food or fluid may be ingested for 6 to 12 hours before the test.
For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
- Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
- Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
- Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
- School age test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
- Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)
How the test will feel
You may feel a gagging sensation as the tube is passed down to your esophagus. You may also feel cramping and a feeling of fullness if air is introduced to expand an area. You may have a sore throat after the procedure.
Why the test is performed
An endoscopy may be performed to determine the presence of ulcers for which pathology and culture specimens are often useful. It also aids in the diagnosis of cancers and other conditions. Certain infections may also be diagnosed by endoscopy, hence a culture of tissue obtained by endoscopy may be done.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.