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Friday, August 29, 2008
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Small bowel tissue smearDefinitionSmall bowel tissue smear is a laboratory test that checks for disease-causing substances in a sample of tissue from the small intestine. Why the Test is PerformedYour doctor may order this test if you have signs or symptoms of an infection of the small intestine. In most cases, this test is only done when stool examinations and duodenal string test have been unable to confirm a diagnosis. How the Test is PerformedA sample of tissue from the small intestine is removed during a procedure called esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). For more information on this procedure, see EGD. The sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is placed on a microscope slide, stained, and sliced for examination. How to Prepare for the TestFor information on how to prepare for the removal of tissue from your small intestine, see EGD. How the Test Will FeelThe laboratory smear does not involve the patient, so there is no pain. For information on how it will feel to have a sample of intestinal tissue removed, see EGD. RisksA laboratory smear poses no risks to the patient. For risks related to obtaining a sample of intestinal tissue, see EGD. ConsiderationsExamination of tissue by a pathologist can help in the diagnosis of certain intestinal infections. Normal ResultsA normal result means no disease-related substances or changes were found in the sample when examined under the microscope. However, the small intestine normally contains certain healthy bacteria and yeast. Their presence is not a sign of disease. Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results. What Abnormal Results MeanAn abnormal result means that certain microorganisms, such as the parasites Giardia and Entamoeba, were seen in the tissue sample.
Review Date: 12/3/2007 Reviewed By: D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. |