Procedure details
Skin Biopsy
A skin biopsy takes a small sample of skin to be examined under a microscope. It is performed when a diagnosis cannot be confirmed from examination alone.\n\nDifferent types of biopsy...
Category
Medical Treatments
Duration
10–15 minutes
Anesthesia
Local anaesthetic injection
About this procedure
A skin biopsy takes a small sample of skin to be examined under a microscope. It is performed when a diagnosis cannot be confirmed from examination alone.\n\nDifferent types of biopsy — shave, punch or excision — are used depending on the lesion. A dermatologist reviews the results and explains what they mean.
Who it is suitable for
- ["Suspicious or changing skin lesions","Rashes that have not responded to treatment","Lesions that need confirmation of their nature","Nail or scalp conditions that require diagnosis"]
How the procedure is done
The area is numbed with a local anaesthetic. A small sample is taken with a scalpel or a punch tool, and one or two tiny stitches may be placed. The sample is sent to a pathology laboratory.
Recovery & aftercare
The small wound heals over one to two weeks. Keep it clean and dry, and follow the aftercare given. A follow-up visit reviews the pathology result.
Important notes
- ["A small scar is expected at the biopsy site","Results take a few days to come back from the laboratory","Keep the wound clean and protect it from the sun while healing"]