URMC Neurology Patient Care
Clinical Services - Neuropathology Lab Muscle Biopsy
For most patients, a sample of muscle tissue can be obtained by
penetrating the skin with a needle, sparing the post-operative
discomfort and risk associated with the more invasive open biopsy
procedure. The site of the needle biopsy requires no sutures
and heals with a low chance of infection. Needle biopsies are
performed in the outpatient clinic or at the inpatient bedside.
Patients with severe muscle atrophy need to undergo open biopsy,
which is performed in our Ambulatory Care Center.
Patients experiencing the following symptoms may need a muscle biopsy:
- Unexplained weakness or muscle pain
- Unexplained elevations in serum creatine kinase (CK) levels
- Recurrent rhabdomyolysis (the destruction or degeneration of skeletal muscle tissue)
Chemical analysis of muscle often leads to a precise diagnosis of specific underlying muscular dystrophies and myopathies. Muscle is also an easily accessible tissue to help diagnose:
- Sarcoidosis
- Systemic vasculitis
- Mitochondrial disorders
Schedule an Appointment
To schedule an appointment or to speak with one of our neurologists, please
call 585-275-1200. If you must cancel your appointment, please do so at least
24 hours in advance.
The Department of Neurology participates with Blue Choice, MVP Healthcare,
Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rochester health plans.
Co-payments are collected at time of service. We accept cash or check only for all applicable co-payments and personal balances due at the time of service.
