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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 and 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.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

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)
schoolage 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.

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