Endometrial biopsy

Alternative names:

biopsy of the endometrium

Normal values:

The lining has no abnormalities.

What abnormal results mean:

Abnormal menstrual periods may be caused by endometrial cancer, uterine fibroids, uterine polyps, or other causes.

If the lining is being tested for infertility, the sample may determine if the lining is properly stimulated by hormones for implantation of the fertilized egg.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

• anovulatory bleeding
• endometritis
• abnormal bleeding if a woman is taking tamoxifen

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