Endometrial Biopsy
A diagnostic procedure involving removal of endometrial tissue to assess uterine lining receptivity and health.
Full Definition
Endometrial biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes a small sample of endometrial tissue for microscopic examination. In reproductive medicine, it's used to assess endometrial receptivity, diagnose endometritis, evaluate luteal phase adequacy, and rule out malignancy in cases of abnormal bleeding. The procedure can be performed in the office using a thin catheter or pipelle device. Timing is crucial, typically performed in the mid-luteal phase for receptivity assessment. Results guide treatment decisions for implantation failure and recurrent pregnancy loss.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from endometrial scratch, which is performed for therapeutic rather than diagnostic purposes.
In Context
- "Endometrial biopsy confirmed chronic endometritis requiring antibiotic treatment." — Pathology report
- "The biopsy was scheduled for cycle day 21 to assess luteal phase endometrium." — Procedure scheduling