If you have been told by your doctor you should have a skin biopsy, you may be searching for more information before scheduling your procedure. For example, what is your doctor trying to assess? What is the procedure is like? Will it leave a scar? You may also want to know how long you can wait before scheduling your biopsy.
What is a Skin Biopsy?
A skin biopsy is a procedure where a sample of tissue is removed from the body and given to a lab to examine for signs of skin conditions, diseases or abnormalities. After cleaning the biopsy site, it is common for a local anesthetic to be injected into the site to numb the area thereby preventing further discomfort before the removal process begins. The methods for removal include a shave biopsy, saucerization, punch biopsy or excisional biopsy. With a shave biopsy, a small layer on the top of the skin or skin growth is shaved. Saucerizations are often performed for removals in the mid to upper dermis layer, which is the second layer of skin. For a punch biopsy, a special circular tool is used to extract a deeper sample than the shaving or saucerization would render. If the area in question requires a wider or deeper incision for removal, your doctor may use a small knife called a scalpel. To better understand which method will be used in your procedure, be sure to ask your doctor beforehand.
After the skin cells have been removed, any required sutures will be placed. To minimize potential scarring, follow the advice of the doctor and post-op instructions. Your doctor may suggest keeping the area moist with a recommended ointment to reduce scabbing and scarring.
The sample itself will be reviewed in a dermatopathology lab for signs of specific skin conditions, diseases or abnormalities. Results will be sent to your doctor in a report who will then contact you to discuss future options should additional measures be required. Although the length of time to receive the report may vary, your doctor should have an approximate date you can expect to receive your results.
Signs Of Skin Cancer
One of the main threats your skin faces is skin cancer. There are several types of skin cancer with the most common being basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma. Symptoms of skin cancer may include itching or burning as well as changes in coloration, size, shape or texture of pre-existing moles or other skin growths. Any new growths, changes in pre-existing growths, alteration in your skin's appearance, or noted discomfort relating to the skin should be checked by a doctor for signs of skin cancer or other skin-related conditions that are often treatable when caught early.
Why You Need A Doctor To Examine Your Skin
Skin is the largest external organ in the human body, and we are unable to view certain areas easily. When something new or altered is found, how does one know if it is harmless? Additionally, certain types of skin conditions have no irritation associated with them. This means symptoms can appear without anyone noticing, especially in hidden locations such as the scalp or back. For these reasons, having a trained and certified medical professional review your skin as suggested by your physician for changes is a critical step in preventative healthcare. While it is important for all people to have their skin examined by a certified dermatologist or primary care physician, the recommended frequency for the exams may vary depending on factors such as the individual's health history, family health history, and amount of radiation or sun exposure.
Causes of Skin Cancer
A known source of skin issues in general, including certain forms of skin cancer, is overexposure to the harmful UV rays generated from the sun. Limiting the time spent in the sun during the hottest parts of the day and wearing sunscreen as well as protective clothing articles may limit the chances of developing sun-related skin cancer cells. But, there are other noteworthy risk factors linked to skin cancer that are trickier to combat. Certain pre-existing health conditions, a family health history of skin cancer, a weak immune system, or a fair complexion will all potentially add to the risk of skin cancer.
In short, it can be frightening to hear your doctor say the words "skin biopsy". Fear of a cancerous diagnosis or a busy schedule where recommended healthcare is placed on the back burner can often be used as excuses to put off the suggested biopsy procedure. However, when caught early, certain forms of skin cancer and other skin-related conditions are treatable. Therefore, it is advisable when recommended to have a skin biopsy or skin exam to schedule your appointment as soon as possible without delay.