A skin biopsy is a minor medical procedure in which a small sample of skin is removed for examination by a pathologist. This is done to diagnose a variety of skin conditions, including:
- Skin cancer
- Infections
- Inflammatory conditions
- Autoimmune diseases
A skin (skin) biopsy removes cells from the surface of your body. Skin biopsy is most often used to diagnose skin conditions, including melanoma and other types of cancer. The type of skin biopsy you will undergo will depend on the type of suspicious cancer and the extent of the suspicious cells. Skin biopsy procedures include:
- Shave the biopsy
- Punch biopsy
- Incisional biopsy
- Excisional biopsy
Shave the biopsy. During a shave biopsy, the doctor uses a tool similar to a razor to scrape the surface of the skin.
Punch biopsy. During a puncture biopsy, the doctor uses a circular tool to remove a small section of the deeper layers of the skin.
Incisional biopsy During an incisional biopsy, the doctor uses a scalpel to remove a small area of the skin. If you receive stitches to close the biopsy site it depends on the amount of skin removed.
Excisional biopsy During a excisional biopsy, the doctor removes a complete lump or an entire area of abnormal skin. You are likely to receive stitches to close the biopsy site.
Skin biopsies are usually performed in a doctor’s office or clinic. The procedure is typically quick and relatively painless. After the biopsy is performed, the skin sample is sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope. The results of the biopsy will usually be available within a few weeks.
If you have any concerns about a spot on your skin, it is important to see a doctor to get it checked out. A skin biopsy may be recommended to help determine the cause of the spot. Early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer is essential for improving the chances of a cure.
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