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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Dec 19, 2025

Human Vastus Lateralis Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Using the Weil-Blakesley Conchotome

Human Vastus Lateralis Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Using the Weil-Blakesley Conchotome

Published on: March 4, 2016

Muscle biopsy: what and why and when?

Jon Walters¹, Atik Baborie²

¹Neurology, Morriston Hospital, Swansea, UK richard.walters@wales.nhs.uk.

Practical Neurology

|June 7, 2020

Summary

Skeletal muscle biopsy is a key diagnostic tool for muscle disorders. This review clarifies when to perform biopsies, considering genetic advances and various clinical presentations, to improve diagnostic confidence and understanding of muscle pathology.

Keywords:

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Collection of Skeletal Muscle Biopsies from the Superior Compartment of Human Musculus Tibialis Anterior for Mechanical Evaluation

Collection of Skeletal Muscle Biopsies from the Superior Compartment of Human Musculus Tibialis Anterior for Mechanical Evaluation

Published on: September 27, 2020

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Last Updated: Dec 19, 2025

Human Vastus Lateralis Skeletal Muscle Biopsy Using the Weil-Blakesley Conchotome

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Published on: March 4, 2016

Preparation and Respirometric Assessment of Mitochondria Isolated from Skeletal Muscle Tissue Obtained by Percutaneous Needle Biopsy

Preparation and Respirometric Assessment of Mitochondria Isolated from Skeletal Muscle Tissue Obtained by Percutaneous Needle Biopsy

Published on: February 7, 2015

Collection of Skeletal Muscle Biopsies from the Superior Compartment of Human Musculus Tibialis Anterior for Mechanical Evaluation

Collection of Skeletal Muscle Biopsies from the Superior Compartment of Human Musculus Tibialis Anterior for Mechanical Evaluation

Published on: September 27, 2020

Area of Science:

Neurology
Pathology
Genetics

Background:

Skeletal muscle biopsy is a traditional diagnostic method for muscle disorders, often indicated by limb-girdle weakness, myopathic electrophysiology, and elevated creatine kinase (CK).
The advent of genetic testing has prompted a re-evaluation of the necessity and indications for muscle biopsies.
This review addresses the evolving role of muscle biopsy in diagnosing diverse muscle conditions.

Observation:

The article explores specific clinical scenarios, including distal, scapuloperoneal weakness, myositis, rhabdomyolysis, myalgia, hyperCKaemia, and drug-induced myopathies.
It discusses the histological features of normal muscle tissue.
It details pathological changes observed in neurogenic and myopathic disorders.

Findings:

The review aims to provide clarity on the appropriate indications for skeletal muscle biopsy in contemporary clinical practice.
It emphasizes the importance of integrating genetic information with clinical and histological findings.
Understanding normal and abnormal muscle histology is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Implications:

Enhanced confidence in requesting muscle biopsies for diagnosing muscle disorders.
Improved diagnostic accuracy and patient management through a refined understanding of muscle pathology.
Facilitating clearer insights into the underlying mechanisms of various neuromuscular conditions.