A skin biopsy is a procedure that removes a small sample of skin for testing. The procedure can help diagnose a skin lesion (an abnormal area of skin). The skin sample is looked at under a microscope to check for skin cancer, a variety of skin conditions, or skin infections.
Type of skin biopsies
Shave biopsy : The doctor shaves a thin layer from the top or around a lesion.This type of skin biopsy removes the top layers of skin.
Punch biopsy : The doctor uses an instrument called a punch to remove a circular section through all layers of the lesion.Punch biopsy samples contain multiple layers of skin.
Scissors biopsy (snip) : This type of skin biopsy is used to remove a hanging growth from the skin. Just as the name implies, your dermatologist uses surgical-grade scissors to cut off the hanging growth.
Excisional biopsy : An excisional biopsy uses a scalpel to remove all of the skin lesion, usually with some normal skin around it. The sample may include the full thickness of the skin along with fat below the skin.
Why do I need a skin biopsy?
- A mole or skin growth that has changed in its shape, color, or size
- A rash that doesn’t go away
- Scaly or rough skin
- Open sores that won’t heal
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