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An oropharynx lesion biopsy is surgery in which tissue from an abnormal growth or mouth sore is removed and checked for problems.

A painkiller or numbing medicine is first applied to the area. For large sores or sores of the throat, general anesthesia may be needed. All or part of the lesion is removed and sent to the laboratory to check for problems. If there is a growth in the mouth or throat, the biopsy may be the first part of tumor removal.

If a simple painkiller or local numbing medicine is to be used, there is no special preparation. If the test is part of a tumor removal or if general anesthesia is to be used, you may be told not to eat for 6 - 8 hours before the test.

You may feel pressure or tugging while the tissue is being removed. After the numbness wears off, the area may be sore for a few days.

This test is done to determine the cause of a sore (lesion) in the throat.

This test is only performed when there is an abnormal tissue area.

• Cancer (such as squamous cell carcinoma)
• Fungal infections (such as candida)
• Histoplasmosis
• Oral lichen planus
• Precancerous sore (leukoplakia)
• Viral infections (such as Herpes simplex)

• Infection of the site
• Bleeding from the site

If there is bleeding, the blood vessels may be sealed (cauterized) with an electric current or laser.

Avoid hot or spicy food after the biopsy.

Throat lesion biopsy; Biopsy - mouth or throat; Mouth lesion biopsy

Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo; Mosby; 2005.

Updated by: Alan Lipkin, MD, Otolaryngologist, Private Practice, Denver, Colorado. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.