Why is this procedure done?
A biopsy looks at cells that are not normal. The doctor may be looking for cancer, tumors, or other health problems. Your doctor will decide what type of biopsy you need. This will depend on the size of the lump or sore and where it is located. ‚
What will the results be?
The results will tell your doctor what type of skin condition you have. The biopsy reading will be done in the lab. Your doctor may ask for other tests to double check the biopsy reading. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- If you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure
What happens during the procedure?
There are a few ways to do a skin biopsy. Your doctor will decide the best way for you. ‚
- The staff will clean the skin area with the lesion. The doctor will numb the area. You may give be given a drug to keep you relaxed and pain free.
- The doctor may:
- Shave the lesion down to the level of your skin. This may be done with a laser or scalpel. This type of biopsy removes the surface or top layers of the skin. You will heal quickly.
- Use a tool to take a small round piece of skin. This is used for deeper skin spots or sores.
- Take a small piece of a larger growth. You may need stitches to close the wound.
- Take the whole lump or sore spot for testing. You may need stitches to close the wound.
- This procedure may take 5 to 20 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
- The wound will be covered with clean bandages.
- The doctor may send a sample of the lesion for tests to check for skin cancer. Ask your doctor when you will have results
- You may go home after the procedure.
What care is needed at home?
- Your doctor may give you drugs for pain and infection. Take your drugs as ordered by your doctor.
- Talk to your doctor about how to care for your biopsy site. Ask your doctor:
- When you should change your bandages
- When you may take a bath or shower
- When you may go back to your normal activities like work or driving
- Be sure to wash your hands before touching your wound or dressing.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. Your doctor may want to go over the result of your tests. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Infection
- Scarring
- Bleeding
Where can I learn more?
DermNet NZ ‚
http://dermnetnz.org/procedures/biopsy.html ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_body/skin_stuff/skin_biopsy.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚