Skin biopsy is a diagnostic procedure which involves taking a small tissue sample from the skin and examining it carefully under a microscope to evaluate various skin problems and medical condition of the person. The doctor advises a skin biopsy in order to check for certain skin diseases and conditions. There are various types of skin biopsies which are as mentioned:
- Shave biopsy – In this procedure, the doctor uses a razor-like tool, which helps in removing a small portion of the upper layer of the skin i.e. epidermis and some part of dermis.
- Punch biopsy – In this procedure, the doctor uses a circular shaped tool, that helps in removing tissues from deeper skin layer i.e. epidermis, dermis, and superficial fat layers.
- Excisional biopsy – In this procedure, the doctor uses a scalpel (a small knife) to remove the affected skin or lump completely along with a small part of the surrounding normal tissue down through or to the fatty skin layer.
The type of skin biopsy advised, depends upon the size and the location of the affected area known as a skin lesion.