What is the purpose of an endometrial biopsy?

The purpose of an endometrial biopsy is to evaluate the endometrial lining for abnormalities. This procedure involves taking a small sample of tissue from the inner lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium, which can then be examined under a microscope. The analysis can help identify issues such as hyperplasia, which is an overgrowth of the endometrial tissue, polyps, or potential signs of cancer. It plays a critical role in diagnosing conditions related to abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, and the effects of hormonal imbalances.

This specific focus makes it distinct from other procedures or tests. Assessing blood flow in the uterus, for example, usually involves imaging techniques like Doppler ultrasound, which do not provide tissue samples for histological examination. Testing for fertility could involve various other assessments, such as hormone testing or evaluating the patency of fallopian tubes, rather than directly examining the endometrial lining. Measuring hormone levels in the endometrium typically requires different methodologies, such as hormonal assays rather than tissue biopsies. Thus, evaluating the endometrial lining for abnormalities remains the primary and most appropriate reason for performing an endometrial biopsy.