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 anesthetia is to be used, you may be told not to eat for 6 - 8 hours before the test.

There may feelings of pressure or tugging during removal of the tissue. 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 lesion (abnormal tissue area).

• Histoplasmosis
• Fungal infections (such as candida)
• Viral infections (such as Herpes simplex)
• Cancer of the oropharynx (such as squamous cell carcinoma)
• Precancerous lesion (leukoplakia)

Oral lichen planus is another condition under which the test may be performed.

• 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.

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