Removal of a small portion of abnormal skin to be tested in a laboratory. There are three main types of skin biopsy:
- Shave biopsy - the outer part of the suspect area is removed
- Punch biopsy - a small cylinder of skin is removed using a punch tool
- Excision biopsy - the entire area of abnormal growth is removed
Parts of the Body Involved
Skin
Reasons for Procedure
A skin biopsy is done to evaluate and/or remove a skin growth. It is most often done for the following reasons:
- To diagnose bacterial or fungal infection, cancer, inflammatory skin disorders (such as psoriasis), or benign skin growths
- To verify the presence of normal skin at the edge of an area from which a tumor was removed
- To monitor the effectiveness of a treatment
- To remove warts, moles, skin cancers, or other growths
Risk Factors for Complications during the Procedure
- Previous treatment of inflammatory skin diseases and scar tissue from a previous biopsy can make diagnosis more difficult
- Immunosuppression, bleeding disorders, or circulatory problems (such as diabetes), which can lead to healing problems
- Heart valve conditions, which increase the risk for inflammation of the heart's inner lining after surgery
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure - No significant preparation is required for this procedure
During Procedure
Outcome
The removed skin tissue is analyzed at a laboratory and the results are given to your doctor within a few days. In the lab, the biopsy will be defined as either normal or abnormal. Abnormal results may indicate any of the following:
- Presence of bacteria or fungi
- Inflammation of the skin
- Benign (noncancerous) skin condition
- Skin cancer
Depending on the results, your doctor will make recommendations for further treatment.
Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or discharge from the incision site