Skin biopsy
A skin biopsy is a procedure to remove cells or skin samples from your body for laboratory examination. A doctor uses a skin biopsy to diagnose skin conditions and remove abnormal tissue.
The three main types of skin biopsies are:
Shave biopsy. A doctor uses a tool similar to a razor to remove a small section of the top layers of skin (epidermis and a portion of the dermis).
Punch biopsy. A doctor uses a circular tool to remove a small core of skin
,
Including deeper layers (epidermis
,
Dermis and superficial fat).
Excisional biopsy. A doctor uses a small knife (scalpel) to remove an entire lump or an area of abnormal skin
,
Including a portion of normal skin down to or through the fatty layer of skin.
