Using a small tool similar to an apple corer, a punch biopsy can be used to remove a small area of skin that is sent to the pathologist for review and diagnosis.
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Biopsy, Skin 

Picture of Biopsy, Skin: Using a small tool similar to an apple corer, a punch biopsy can be used to remove a small area of skin that is sent to the pathologist for review and diagnosis. Divider line
Using a small tool similar to an apple corer, a punch biopsy can be used to remove a small area of skin that is sent to the pathologist for review and diagnosis.
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Risks or Side Effects
  • Bleeding
  • Pain
  • Infection
  • Non-healing wound (this is a greater risk if the biopsy is done on the lower legs)
  • Scaring
  • Keloid formation
Additionally, biopsies cannot diagnose all skin conditions. As such, a biopsy of a lesion may not necessarily reveal the correct diagnosis.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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