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.

Colonoscopy

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 hemorrhoids (the most common cause of blood in the stool), polyps, tumors, one or more sores (ulcers), pouches in the wall of the colon (diverticulosis), or inflammation. A red, swollen lining of the colon (colitis) may be caused by infection or inflammatory bowel disease. Types of colon polyps Cancer in the colon

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Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: September 1, 2006
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Peter J. Kahrilas, MD - Gastroenterology
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