It does not mean that you have cancer.
Here’s a review of the main types of skin biopsy.
It works best with lesions that are raised.
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The area should be kept clean and moist for a week to minimize scarring.
Punch biopsy tools come in different sizes.
The sample is obtained from the selected site by rotating the tool.
The area is often closed with a suture.
Incisional or Excisional Biopsy
Incisional and excisional biopsies are both performed with a surgical knife.
Is a Skin Biopsy Dangerous?
Skin biopsy is generally considered a safe procedure.
While complications are uncommon, they can occur.
Bleeding and infection are two possibilities.
If you have a bleeding disorder or take any medications that increase bleeding, talk to your healthcare provider.
Keep in mind that some herbal supplements may increase bleeding as well.
Some people wonder if the biopsy itself could cause the spread of any cancer present.
The research suggests an extremely low risk of this happening, although it is theoretically possible.
You also may avoid any activity that stresses the biopsied area.
These results will tell you if the skin area is cancerous or not.
This may involve what’s called a lymph node dissection.
Also remember that it’s important to be an informed advocate when it comes to your medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
It shouldn’t.
There should be minimal pain following the biopsy.
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Stanford Medicine.Medications and Herbs That Affect Bleeding.
American Cancer Society.Can getting a biopsy make cancer spread?
Yale Medicine.Skin Biopsies: What You Should Expect.
The Skin Cancer Foundation.Skin Cancer Prevention: Protect Yourself With A Complete Approach.
2017 Nov;43(11):1348-1357. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000001188
