Very Common
Related Diagnostics
Other diagnostic tests that might be used in combination or with this one or instead of this one.
Diagnostic
Tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what is wrong with your horse, in order to reach a diagnosis.
Cost: $100 to $500
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
YOUR VET MAY PERFORM
Rectal Biopsy
Cost: $100 to $500
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
Summary
Rectal biopsy is a diagnostic performed on horses that are suspected of having intestinal disease. It is comparatively less invasive than an intestinal biopsy, which requires exploratory surgery or laparoscopy.
This procedure involves the use of a long biopsy instrument and a gloved arm. The vet passes the instrument through the anus into the rectum. One or more pieces of the rectal lining, the mucosa, are sampled and placed in formalin.
This tissue is sent to a laboratory where it is impregnated with paraffin and then cut into very thin, transparent sections. It is then evaluated under a microscope. The results of this evaluation may be indicative of conditions found in the other parts of the intestinal tract.
This procedure involves the use of a long biopsy instrument and a gloved arm. The vet passes the instrument through the anus into the rectum. One or more pieces of the rectal lining, the mucosa, are sampled and placed in formalin.
This tissue is sent to a laboratory where it is impregnated with paraffin and then cut into very thin, transparent sections. It is then evaluated under a microscope. The results of this evaluation may be indicative of conditions found in the other parts of the intestinal tract.
Why A Vet Chooses This Diagnostic
BENEFITS
Although the results of this test should be evaluated in conjunction with other diagnostics, a complete history, and physical exam, they may be helpful in determining the disease processes going on in the rest of the intestine. Likewise, it is a relatively safe and simple procedure to perform. LIMITATIONS
Time delay due to off-site evaluation. Not all disease processes in the intestinal tract are reflected in the mucosa of the rectum. For this reason, this test is not always helpful. Since only a tiny piece (or pieces) of the rectum are sampled and evaluated, regional differences in the mucosa may be missed.