MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Endometrial biopsy

Skip navigation

Medical Encyclopedia

Endometrial biopsy

The mucosal lining of the cavity of the uterus is called the endometrium. It is this lining which undergoes changes over the course of the monthly menstrual cycle, sloughs off and becomes part of the menses. A biopsy of the endometrium is used to check for disease or problems of fertility.

Update Date: 3/19/2008

Updated by: Peter Chen, MD, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2008, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.