Needle Biopsy of the Spleen: About This Test

What is it?

A needle biopsy of the spleen is a procedure to take a tiny sample (biopsy) of your spleen tissue. It may be done as a fine-needle aspiration biopsy or as a core needle biopsy. The tissue sample will be checked under a microscope for cancer or other problems.

Why is this test done?

A spleen biopsy may be done when blood tests are abnormal. It also may be done when an ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI shows a problem with the spleen.

How do you prepare for the test?

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  Tell your doctor ALL the medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies you take. Some may increase the risk of problems during your test. Your doctor will tell you if you should stop taking any of them before the test and how soon to do it.
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  If you take a medicine that prevents blood clots, your doctor may tell you to stop taking it before your test. Or your doctor may tell you to keep taking it. (These medicines include aspirin and other blood thinners.) Make sure that you understand exactly what your doctor wants you to do.
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  Be sure you have someone to take you home. Anesthesia and pain medicine will make it unsafe for you to drive or get home on your own.
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  Follow the instructions exactly about when to stop eating and drinking. If you don't, your test may be canceled. If your doctor told you to take your medicines on the day of the test, take them with only a sip of water.

How is the test done?

• You will need to take off all or most of your clothes. You will be given a cloth or paper gown to use during the test.
• You may be given a sedative through a vein (I.V.) in your arm. The sedative will help you relax and stay still.
• The area where the biopsy needle will go in will be numbed.
• Your doctor will use ultrasound or a CT scan to help guide the biopsy needle to your spleen. You may be asked to hold your breath.
• Your doctor will use the needle to take a small sample of tissue from your spleen. Then the doctor will remove the needle.
• Pressure will be applied to stop the bleeding. A bandage will be put on the puncture site.

You will be watched for 2 to 4 hours after the biopsy while the sedative wears off. You will be checked for any signs of internal bleeding. You can go home if you have no problems after the test.

How long does the test take?

The biopsy takes 20 to 60 minutes. It also takes time to prepare before the biopsy. And you can expect to be monitored after the biopsy for a few hours or more.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).
• You have severe trouble breathing.
• You have severe pain in your belly or chest.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new or worse belly pain, swelling, or bloating.
• Bright red blood has soaked through the bandage over the puncture site.
• You are sick to your stomach or cannot keep fluids down.
• You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.
• You have signs of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the puncture site.
  • Pus draining from the puncture site.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.