Do our BIOPSY CELLS GROW BACK?

[smcclafferty]

I was just wondering if the cells that they take out for the biopsy eventually grow back, or are they forever gone. I NEED ALL THE CELLS I CAN GET! I mean, any IC patient would, I assume, considering we have "compromised" bladder linings. Does anybody know? Also, if they don't grow back, would a doctor be able to see where they were taken off in another cystoscopy at a future time? Thank you.

[DaniBelle]

I've never thought about it before. It's a great question and I hope someone posts the answer soon, so I too can get the answer. You're right, we need all the 'lining' we can get. I wonder also, if when it heals, the tissue is clear, or is it new I.C. tissue? Waiting for the answer.....

[SandyRN]

I would think so...think of it as a scrape on your knee, it will eventually heal up. The cells that they take for a biopsy are really a very tiny amount and wouldn't bother the actual lining of your bladder. If you were having ulcers removed that would take a bigger chunk of cells away, but even that would eventually heal where they were removed.

Hope this helps. Sandy

[blendno14]

Hi,

as far as I know there will be tiny little scars, just like a normal wound - but they are really tiny....

[ICNDonna]

I also would assume the bladder biopsy site would heal over. I know that if you have stomach ulcers removed, the stomach heals. And yes, the biopsies are very tiny so it shouldn't be a problem.

Donna

[smcclafferty]

I just wanted to know because I haven't felt the same since my biopsy. I want to know that if it does leave some sort of "scarring", isn't scarring supposed to make IC sufferers worse?

[SandyRN]

How long has it been since you had the biopsy done? Did you have a cysto/hydro done or an in office cysto? It takes the body time to heal after having any sort of procedure. It took me weeks to feel any progress after I had my cysto/hydro done. I felt much worse for a while afterward. I understand what you're saying, but the scarring from taking a tiny biopsy isn't the same kind of scarring that causes IC.

[smcclafferty]

That's so encouraging to hear, and yes, I am jumping the gun, but I am a very anxious person, and I am newly diagnosed so I am very scared. Yes, I only had my biopsy done on January 5, and today is January 30. I am going to give it time. I am just trying to look ahead. I always think too deeply, that is one of my problems, but thank you.

[SandyRN]

I do the same thing...I think about things too much! My middle name should be worrier. If you don't feel better soon you should definately talk to your doctor to be on the safe side. :)

[smcclafferty]

I will, thank you. See, I already called him panicking twice already, so I am waiting until my next appointment now which is in the middle of February. Thanks again.