Skin Biopsy in Denizli: When Is It Needed and How Is It Done?

Some skin diseases look very much alike, and even the most careful examination cannot always tell them apart with certainty. In these cases the tissue itself needs to be looked at. The small piece taken by biopsy turns the diagnosis from an estimate into a finding and makes sure treatment is aimed at the right target.

When Is a Skin Biopsy Needed?

A biopsy is requested when the examination findings alone are not enough. The main reasons are:

• A mole that looks suspicious or shows change on dermoscopy
• A sore or lump that bleeds, crusts over or has not healed for weeks
• A rash that does not respond to treatment or whose diagnosis is unclear
• Lesions that raise a suspicion of skin cancer
• A suspected hair condition that can lead to permanent hair loss

For moles, the decision to take a biopsy is usually made as a result of a mole check with dermoscopy.

What Types of Skin Biopsy Are There?

The method is chosen according to the size, depth and location of the lesion.

Punch biopsy

A special round-ended instrument, similar to the tip of a pen, is used to remove a small cylinder of skin that includes all its layers. This is the preferred method for rashes and scalp conditions. One or a few stitches may be placed in the opening.

Shave biopsy

The upper part of a lesion that is raised above the skin is removed from the surface with a fine blade. Stitches are usually not needed; the wound heals by forming a scab.

Excisional and incisional biopsy

In an excisional biopsy, the whole lesion is removed together with a thin margin of healthy skin around it, and the wound is stitched. This is the preferred method for suspicious moles. In an incisional biopsy, only part of a large lesion is removed.

How Is a Skin Biopsy Performed?

1. Before the procedure, we ask about your medicines, allergies and any tendency to bleed.
2. The biopsy area is marked and cleaned.
3. Local anaesthetic is injected into the area with a fine needle; you feel a brief sting and burning with the first injection, and then the area goes numb.
4. The tissue sample is taken with the chosen method, bleeding is controlled and stitches are placed if needed.
5. The area is covered, and the tissue is sent to the pathology laboratory in a preserving fluid.

Once the area is numb, the procedure takes only a short time. You can come and go on your own.

What Should I Do Before Coming for a Biopsy?

If you take blood thinners, aspirin or herbal supplements, let us know in advance; these can increase bleeding but must not be stopped on your own. If you have ever had a reaction to a local anaesthetic, tell us that as well. On the day of the procedure, simply avoid putting cream or make-up on the biopsy area.

How Do I Care for the Wound After a Biopsy?

Wound care depends on the method; we explain the care that suits you at the end of the procedure. In general:

• Keep the dressing clean and dry, and change it as often as advised.
• Do not pick off scabs; wait for them to fall off on their own.
• If you have stitches, avoid movements that strain the area and heavy exercise until they are removed.
• Protect the healing area from the sun; this helps the scar become less noticeable.

When the stitches come out depends on the part of the body, and we tell you at the end of the procedure.

What Are the Risks of a Skin Biopsy?

A skin biopsy is a minor procedure, but some unwanted effects can still occur: slight bleeding or bruising where the needle and the cut were, infection, a scar and, rarely, a stitch coming open. If you notice increasing redness, swelling, warmth, discharge or a fever, get in touch with us. If bleeding will not stop, go to the emergency department of the nearest hospital.

How Is the Biopsy Result Assessed?

A pathologist examines the tissue under the microscope and writes a report. How long the result takes depends on the type of examination. We review the report together with the examination findings at the follow-up visit and discuss the treatment plan according to the diagnosis. If a benign lesion has been removed completely, no further procedure is usually needed.

Sometimes the biopsy is also the treatment: when a small lesion is removed in full with an excisional biopsy, the diagnosis is made and the lesion is gone. A biopsy result from the scalp determines how hair loss treatment will be planned. For small benign lesions with a clear diagnosis, cryotherapy or cautery may be an option instead of a biopsy.

Skin Biopsy in Denizli: What We Discuss Beforehand

At our clinic in Denizli, we decide on a biopsy after the examination and, where needed, dermoscopy. Before the procedure we share with you which method will be used, the likelihood of a scar and when the result will be discussed. You can book an appointment on a day that suits you.