Colonoscopy
Results
Colonoscopy is a test that allows your doctor to look at the inner lining of your large intestine (rectum and colon). If a sample of tissue (biopsy) was collected during the colonoscopy, it will be sent to a lab for tests.
- Samples of colon tissue are usually sent to a pathology lab, where they are looked at under a microscope for diseases.
- Other samples of colon tissue may be sent to a microbiology lab to see whether an infection is present.
Your doctor may be able to tell you the results immediately after the procedure. Other test results are ready in 2 to 4 days. Test results for certain infections may be ready in several weeks.
| Normal: |
The lining of the colon looks smooth and pink, with a lot of normal folds. No growths, pouches, bleeding, or inflammation are present. |
|---|---|
| Abnormal: |
Some common abnormal findings
of colonoscopy include
Reference hemorrhoids Opens New Window (the most common cause of blood in the
stool),
Reference polyps Opens New Window Reference |
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference December 7, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology |
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