Definition of Small bowel tissue smear:

Small bowel tissue smear is a laboratory test that checks for disease-causing substances in a sample of tissue from the small intestine.

How the test is performed:

A sample of tissue from the small intestine is removed during a procedure called esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). For more information on this procedure, see EGD.

The sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is sliced, stained, and placed on a microscope slide for examination.

How to prepare for the test:

For information on how to prepare for the removal of tissue from your small intestine, see EGD.

How the test will feel:

The laboratory smear does not involve the patient, so there is no pain. For information on how it will feel to have a sample of intestinal tissue removed, see EGD.

Why the test is performed:

Your doctor may order this test if you have signs or symptoms of an infection of the small intestine. In most cases, this test is only done when stool examinations and duodenal string test have been unable to confirm a diagnosis.