chapter 13

The surgical removal and examination of tissue from the living body. It is generally performed to determine wheter a tumor is benign or malignant.

The visualization of the entire colon using a colonoscope.

An instrument that consists of a tube and an optical system that is used for direct visual inspection of organs or cavities.

To blow a powder, vapor, or gas(e.g., air) into a body cavity.

The darkening of the stool caused by the presence of blood in an amount of 50ml or greater.

Blood in such small amount that is not detectable by the unaided eye.

(guaiac slide) A substance that is able to transfer oxygen from hydrogenperoxide to oxidize guaiac, causing guaiac to turn blue.

An endoscope that is specially designed for passage through the anus to permit visualization of the rectum and sigmoid colon.

The visual examination of the rectum and sigmoid colon using a sigmoidoscope.