Gastroenterology Endoscopy Studies
Endoscopy studies examine the digestive tract to evaluate symptoms such as abdominal pain, bleeding, reflux, or changes in bowel habits.
["GI endoscopy allows a clinician to inspect the digestive tract and obtain tissue samples when needed."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27895-2
- Short code
- GASTROENTEROLOGYENDOSCOPYSTUDIES
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Gastroenterology endoscopy studies are procedures used to examine the esophagus, stomach, intestines, or other parts of the digestive tract. A flexible scope is passed through the mouth or rectum so the clinician can check for inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, polyps, or other abnormalities.
Why might I need this test?
These studies may be recommended for persistent nausea, heartburn, difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, anemia, or changes in bowel habits. They may also be used to investigate suspected polyps, ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, or digestive tract cancer.
How is the test performed?
During an upper endoscopy, the scope enters through the mouth; during a colonoscopy, it enters through the rectum. Sedation is commonly used, and the clinician may take small tissue samples or remove small polyps. The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on its scope and complexity.
How do I prepare for the test?
Preparation depends on the procedure. For a colonoscopy, you may need to clear your bowel with laxatives and follow a specific diet beforehand. Tell your clinician about medications, allergies, pregnancy, and conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease; do not stop prescribed medicines unless instructed.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Endoscopy may identify ulcers, inflammation, bleeding, polyps, benign growths, or suspicious areas that require biopsy. Findings can help guide treatment for digestive conditions or determine whether follow-up screening is needed. If suspicious tissue is found, laboratory examination of biopsy samples may be needed to make a more specific diagnosis.
Short name
GI endoscopy studies
Frequently asked questions
Is GI endoscopy painful?
Will I need someone to drive me home?
Can endoscopy detect digestive tract cancer?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy