Skin Biopsy

Skin Biopsy: Accurate Diagnosis for Effective Treatment

A skin biopsy is a essential diagnostic procedure that helps our dermatologists accurately identify skin conditions that cannot be diagnosed by visual examination alone. By examining skin tissue under a microscope, we can provide definitive diagnoses and develop targeted treatment plans.

When Is a Skin Biopsy Needed?

Diagnostic Purposes:

• Distinguishing between different types of rashes or skin conditions
• Identifying inflammatory skin diseases
• Diagnosing autoimmune skin conditions
• Confirming suspected infections

Cancer Screening:

• Evaluating suspicious moles or lesions
• Confirming or ruling out skin cancer
• Determining the type and depth of skin cancer
• Guiding treatment decisions

Types of Skin Biopsy

Shave Biopsy - A thin layer of skin is shaved off using a surgical blade. Ideal for superficial lesions and raised growths.

Punch Biopsy - A circular tool removes a small, cylindrical sample including deeper skin layers. Used for rashes and conditions affecting deeper tissues.

Excisional Biopsy - The entire lesion is removed along with surrounding tissue. Preferred for suspected melanomas or when complete removal is desired.

Incisional Biopsy - A portion of a larger lesion is removed for analysis. Used when the lesion is too large for complete removal.

The Biopsy Process

1. Preparation - The area is cleaned and marked
2. Anesthesia - Local anesthetic numbs the site completely
3. Biopsy - The appropriate technique is performed based on the lesion type
4. Closure - Stitches may be placed if needed
5. Specimen Processing - Tissue is sent to the pathology laboratory
6. Results - Findings are typically available within 4-10 days

What to Expect

During the Procedure: You’ll feel the initial anesthetic injection, then no pain during the biopsy itself.

After the Procedure: The site is bandaged. Mild tenderness is normal for 1-2 days.

Wound Care: Keep the area clean and dry. Follow specific instructions based on biopsy type.

Follow-up: We’ll contact you with results and schedule a consultation if needed.

Understanding Your Results

Our pathologists provide detailed reports that help determine:

• The exact nature of your skin condition
• Whether any abnormal or cancerous cells are present
• The characteristics of the condition for treatment planning
• If complete removal was achieved (for excisional biopsies)

Post-Biopsy Care

• Keep the bandage dry for 24 hours
• Clean gently with soap and water after 24 hours
• Apply antibiotic ointment as directed
• Watch for signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, discharge)
• Return for suture removal if applicable

Procedure time: 15-30 minutes Anesthesia: Local anesthetic Results: 4-10 days for pathology report

If you have a concerning skin lesion or undiagnosed skin condition, schedule a consultation with our dermatologists to determine if a biopsy is appropriate for your situation.