Skin (Cutaneous) Biopsy

What is a skin biopsy?

A skin biopsy is the removal of a small piece of skin for lab tests. It may be done to help diagnose a problem with the skin. Another name for this procedure is cutaneous biopsy.

When is it used?

A skin biopsy will help your healthcare provider make a diagnosis of your problem. For example:

• You may have an internal disease that a skin biopsy may explain.
• You may have a skin disease or cancer.
• Your skin may have become discolored.
• Your skin may be inflamed.

Alternatives to this procedure include:

• to proceed with treatment without a firm diagnosis
• to choose not to have treatment, recognizing the risks of your condition
• to take a watchful approach and reevaluate the lesion or disorder at a future time.

You should ask your healthcare provider about these choices.

How do I prepare for a cutaneous biopsy?

Follow the instructions you are given by your healthcare provider.

What happens during the procedure?

In most cases your healthcare provider will numb your skin with a spray or shot. There are 3 types of skin biopsy: incisional, shave, and punch.

• For an incisional biopsy, a knife called a scalpel is used to take small piece of skin. An excisional biopsy is a special kind of incisional biopsy: a whole lump or abnormal area is taken out rather than just a sample. The skin is then sewn back together.
• A punch biopsy is done with a sharp, circular knife, which takes a little circle of skin about one quarter inch wide and deep. This allows deeper layers of skin to be examined.
• A shave biopsy is the removal of just the surface of a usually tiny piece of skin. It may also be used to remove a small growth on the skin. A scalpel or razor-blade-like tool is used to skim the surface.

What happens after the procedure?

You may stay in the treatment center for a short time for observation before you go home.

Follow your provider's instructions for taking care of your wound. You may have some soreness around the cut for 1 or 2 weeks.

Ask your provider how you will get your results and how soon you should return for follow-up.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

This procedure will help your healthcare provider make a more accurate diagnosis.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

• You should expect a small scar from the biopsy.
• You may have infection or bleeding.

You should ask your healthcare provider how these risks apply to you.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your provider right away if:

• You have bleeding that cannot be stopped by putting pressure on the wound.
• Your wound becomes red or has pus or you develop a fever (signs of infection).

Call during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.
• You want to make another appointment.