What is one of the purposes of a colonoscopy?

One of the primary purposes of a colonoscopy is to obtain tissue for a biopsy. During the procedure, a flexible tube equipped with a camera is inserted into the rectum and advanced through the colon. This allows the doctor to visually inspect the inner lining of the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps or tumors. If any suspicious areas are detected, the doctor can take a tissue sample, which is then sent to a laboratory for further examination. This biopsy is crucial for diagnosing conditions like colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease and for assessing the nature of any abnormalities.

In contrast, screening for liver cancer is not typically done through colonoscopy, as the liver is not part of the colonic system. Measuring blood cholesterol levels is unrelated to a colonoscopy since it pertains to cardiovascular health rather than the condition of the colon. Assessing kidney function is also outside the scope of a colonoscopy, as it focuses on the urinary system and not on the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, the ability to obtain tissue for biopsy during a colonoscopy highlights its critical role in evaluating gastrointestinal health.