Biopsy examination (histopathology)
Quick answer: Histopathology examines tissue removed by biopsy or surgery under a microscope to find out what a growth or abnormal area is. The size refers to the piece of tissue sent. Doctors order it after a biopsy or operation, for example to check a lump, polyp, endometrium or removed organ for inflammation, infection or cancer.
- SampleTissue
- TakesDepends on how the tissue is taken, from a few minutes for a small biopsy to the length of an operation
- Before the testPreparation depends on how the tissue is taken; your doctor will tell you what to do.
- In fertility careTissue from the uterus, such as an endometrial biopsy, polyp or fibroid, is often sent for histopathology during fertility evaluation.
How the test is done
- 1A doctor takes a small piece of tissue, or removes an area during surgery
- 2Numbing medicine or anaesthesia is used depending on the site
- 3The tissue is placed in a preserving liquid and sent to the lab
- 4In the lab it is processed, cut into thin slices and stained for a pathologist to examine
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A pathologist writes a report on the tissue; discuss what it means for you with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
The report can show normal tissue, inflammation, infection such as tuberculosis, a harmless growth such as a polyp or fibroid, pre-cancerous changes, or cancer and its type. Some reports need extra special stains before a final answer is given.
Who usually has this test
People who have had a biopsy or operation to check a lump, polyp, lining of the uterus, skin change or removed organ.
Risks and aftercare
Aftercare depends on where the tissue was taken; mild soreness or spotting is common, and seek help for fever, heavy bleeding or increasing pain.
Names and options
Also called: biopsy, histopathology, HPE, tissue examination
Options
- Small specimen
- Medium specimen
- Large specimen
Listed by the hospital as
- BIOPSY-LARGE SPECIMENS
- BIOPSY-MEDIUM SPECIMENS
- BIOPSY-SMALL SPECIMENS
Questions about this test
What is an endometrial biopsy?
It is a small sample of the uterus lining taken through the cervix with a thin tube. It is used to check the lining for problems such as infection, overgrowth or cancer.
What does benign mean on a biopsy report?
Benign means the tissue is not cancer. Your doctor will explain whether any treatment or follow-up is still needed.
Why does a biopsy report sometimes need more tests?
Some tissues need special stains to confirm the type of cells or to look for germs such as TB. This can add some time before the final report.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.