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Upper Gastrointestinal Capsule Endoscopy Study Report

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A report from capsule endoscopy, a procedure that uses a swallowable camera to examine the upper digestive tract and, in some cases, the small intestine.

Quick summary

["This report shows how the lining of the digestive tract appeared during capsule endoscopy and may identify inflammation, bleeding, ulcers, or other abnormalities."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
100228-6
Short code
UGI capsule endo study Doc
Synonyms
UGI capsule endo study Doc
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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?

Upper gastrointestinal capsule endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which you swallow a small camera capsule. It takes pictures of the digestive tract as it passes through, and the images are reviewed by a clinician.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this study to investigate unexplained abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, reflux symptoms, difficulty swallowing, gastrointestinal bleeding, or poor weight gain. It can also help evaluate conditions such as ulcers and inflammatory bowel disease.

How is the test performed?

After you swallow the capsule, you usually remain near the endoscopy unit while it records images. The capsule is naturally passed in the stool, and its recordings are downloaded and reviewed to create the study report.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's preparation instructions. Fasting before the procedure is commonly required, and your medication and dietary instructions may vary. Tell the care team if you have swallowing difficulty, a recent abdominal operation, or a history of capsule retention.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Upper GI capsule endoscopy

Frequently asked questions

Does capsule endoscopy use radiation?
No. Capsule endoscopy does not use x-rays or other forms of radiation.
Will I feel anything while the capsule is inside me?
Most people do not feel the capsule moving through the digestive tract. You may experience mild abdominal fullness or pressure, particularly soon after swallowing it.
What happens if the report is abnormal?
Your clinician may recommend additional examination, such as standard endoscopy, imaging, or laboratory tests. Follow-up depends on the findings and the reason the capsule study was ordered.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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