Patient Education
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn about general health issues that may not be related to Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein
Cervical biopsy
A cervical biopsy is a procedure to remove a sample of the cervix so the tissue can be examined under a microscope. A cervical biopsy is usually done to investigate areas of abnormal tissue found during a Pap test, HPV test, or colposcopy.
The amount of cervical tissue removed depends on the method used.
- A simple cervical biopsy, sometimes called a punch biopsy, removes a small piece of tissue from the surface of the cervix.
- An endocervical biopsy (endocervical curettage) removes tissue from high in the cervical canal by using a brush or scraping with an instrument.
- An excisional biopsy of the cervix is a more extensive form of a cervical biopsy that removes a cone-shaped wedge of tissue from the cervix.
Current as of: November 27, 2023
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.