Overview

Skin Biopsy is a diagnostic procedure to remove a small sample of skin tissue for microscopic examination to diagnose skin conditions.

Skin biopsy is crucial for diagnosing skin cancers, inflammatory conditions, infections, and other dermatological disorders.

Learn more in our comprehensive RxDx Dermatology Course

Indications

✓
Suspicious Lesions

Potential skin cancer

✓
Inflammatory Conditions

Dermatitis, psoriasis

✓
Infectious Diseases

Fungal, bacterial infections

✓
Autoimmune Disorders

Lupus, vasculitis

✓
Diagnostic Uncertainty

Unclear diagnosis

Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications

✗ Patient refusal
✗ Active infection at site

Relative Contraindications

✗ Bleeding disorders
✗ Anticoagulation therapy

📋 Equipment Checklist

Check off items as you gather them:

Pre-procedure Preparation

Preparation includes patient assessment, site selection, informed consent, and understanding biopsy types.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Site Selection

Choose appropriate biopsy site.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong site
  • Inadequate sample

💡 Pro Tip:

Select representative area.

Step 2: Anesthesia

Administer local anesthesia.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate anesthesia
  • Wrong technique

💡 Pro Tip:

Ensure complete numbness.

Step 3: Biopsy Technique

Perform biopsy using appropriate method.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate depth
  • Poor technique

💡 Pro Tip:

Use proper technique.

Step 4: Hemostasis

Control bleeding.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Excessive bleeding
  • Poor hemostasis

💡 Pro Tip:

Use pressure or cautery.

Step 5: Closure

Close wound appropriately.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor closure
  • Tension

💡 Pro Tip:

Use tension-free closure.

Step 6: Specimen Handling

Preserve specimen properly.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor preservation
  • Wrong container

💡 Pro Tip:

Use appropriate fixative.

Master Biopsy with RxDx

Access 100+ procedure videos and expert guidance with the RxDx app

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Post-procedure Care

Post-procedure care involves wound care, monitoring for complications, and follow-up for results.

Complications & Management

Complication Incidence Signs Management Prevention
Bleeding 5-10% Excessive bleeding Pressure, sutures Proper technique
Infection 2-5% Redness, pain, discharge Antibiotics Sterile technique
Scarring 10-20% Visible scar Time, scar care Proper technique
Inadequate sample 3-8% Insufficient tissue Repeat biopsy Proper technique

Clinical Pearls

💡

Always select the most representative area for biopsy.

🎯

Use appropriate biopsy technique for the lesion type.

⚡

Ensure adequate depth for proper diagnosis.

🔍

Handle specimen carefully to avoid artifacts.

📊

Document biopsy site and technique.

🎨

Consider cosmetic outcome in site selection.

⚠️

Monitor for complications post-procedure.