Biopsies
Biopsies are commonly performed in dermatology to determine the diagnosis of a skin growth or rash.
Biopsies can help differentiate benign from malignant skin growths, and can help your dermatologist determine the exact cause of your rash.
What is a skin biopsy?
The goal of a biopsy is to determine the diagnosis of a skin growth or rash. A piece of tissue is removed and sent to a laboratory where a dermatopathologist will examine the tissue under the microscope. At times, special testing may be conducted on the tissue. The results of a skin biopsy are usually available after 5-10 days. Your dermatologist will determine the best way of biopsying your specific issue.
How is a skin biopsy performed?
Prior to performing a biopsy, your dermatologist will inject local anesthesia into the area being sampled. After a few seconds of discomfort, the rest of the procedure is virtually painless. There are two main ways of biopsying the skin:
Shave biopsy: in a shave biopsy, your doctor will use a blade to scrape off a skin growth. No stitches are necessary.
Punch biopsy: in a punch biopsy, a circular metal tool will be used to remove a piece of tissue. The open skin is then closed with a suture. The sutures need to be removed 7-14 days after the procedure.
After your biopsy, your dermatologist will give you specific instructions on how to take care of your wound. Usually, there are no exercise restrictions.