Colposcopy-directed biopsy

Alternative names:

biopsy - colposcopy-directed

What the risks are:

After the biopsy there may be some bleeding for up to a week. Avoid sexual intercourse, douching, and using tampons for 1 week to allow the biopsy area to heal. If bleeding is unusually heavy or lasts for longer than 1 week, or if you notice any signs of infection (fever, foul odor or discharge), your health care provider should be contacted.

Special considerations:

When the colposcopic examination or biopsy does not show why the pap smear was abnormal, a more extensive biopsy may be suggested (see Cold cone biopsy).

Cost:

The estimated cost of a colposcopy is $100. The estimated cost of a colposcopy-directed biopsy is $350 to $450.

The laboratory will charge a separate fee.

Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director, Utah Health Informatics and adam.com editorial