Biopsy Site Evaluation (Qualitative)
This test evaluates the site where a biopsy was performed to check for complications such as bleeding, infection, or tissue reaction.
["A biopsy site evaluation helps ensure your healing process is on track after a tissue sample was taken."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94738-2
- Short code
- BIOPSITE
- Synonyms
- Biopsy site Patient
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- 10% neutral buffered formalin container for routine histology; sterile container for fresh tissue; appropriate fixative per specimen type
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Surgical excision with gross and microscopic examination; anatomical site identification documented in pathology report
- SNOMED
- 362961009
- Specimen volume
- Tissue specimen size varies by biopsy type; minimum adequate sample required for diagnosis
- Stability
- Formalin-fixed tissue: indefinite at room temperature; Fresh tissue: deliver to lab within 1 hour, refrigerate at 4°C if delayed; Frozen tissue: -70°C or lower for long-term storage
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–240 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is a Biopsy Site Evaluation?
A biopsy site evaluation involves examining the area where tissue was removed during a biopsy. This may include visual inspection, physical assessment, or lab tests to detect any irregularities like excessive bleeding, swelling, or signs of infection. The test is qualitative, meaning it provides a yes/no or present/absent result rather than a measured value.
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you experience unusual symptoms after a biopsy, such as persistent pain, swelling, redness, or signs of infection (e.g., pus, fever). It helps rule out complications like hematoma (bleeding under the skin), infection, or delayed healing.
What to Expect During the Test
This test is typically performed as part of a physical examination or through a simple lab analysis of the biopsy site fluid (if applicable). No special preparation is usually needed beyond standard pre-biopsy instructions. Results are reviewed by your provider to guide further care.
Common Findings and Next Steps
Common findings may include normal healing, minor inflammation, or mild infection. If abnormalities are detected, your provider may recommend additional tests (e.g., cultures for infection), medications (e.g., antibiotics), or monitoring to ensure proper recovery.
Reference range
Not applicable; this is an anatomical descriptor (qualitative) rather than a quantitative analyteN/A
No special patient preparation required; surgical consent and standard pre-operative protocols apply per biopsy procedure
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I prevent complications from a biopsy site?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy