[Jejunal biopsy].

Abstract

Considering many years' experience in various centres, the authors evidence indications, contraindications, and possible technical inconveniences relative to jejunum biopsy. They analyze various aspects concerning the rightest methods of performance particularly concerning the patient's sedation and immobilization, the local anaesthesia of the back pharynx, techniques facilitating the placement of the capsule the sampling of the mucosa (mucous membrane) and the recovery of the capsule. Then the authors examine the criteria of evaluation of the biopsy sample through both stereomicroscopical and traditional microscopical examinations. They analyze the main parameters in the histological evaluation of biopsy and the basic conditions to observe in order to evaluate histological aspects correctly. Finally they propose a score of histological evaluation, for quick, easy routine use; its results can be reproduced in accordance with traditional histological reading which allows examiners from different centres to confirm their judgements about the atrophy of the mucosa and enables more significant comparisons in case of biopsy repeated on the same subject.