URMC Neurology Patient Care

Clinical Services - Neuropathology Lab Muscle Biopsy

Immunoflourescence photo of myosin heavy chain slow, caveolin, and ulex.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:

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:

To Schedule an Appointment...

To schedule an appointment or to speak with one of our neurologists, please call 585-275-6372.

The Department of Neurology participates with Blue Choice, Preferred Care, Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rochester health plans. We accept cash or check only for all applicable co-payments and personal balances due at the time of service. If you must cancel your appointment, please do so at least 24 hours in advance. You will be charged a $25.00 fee if you miss an appointment.
Please arrive 20 minutes before your appointment.