Skin Biopsy & Diagnostic Analysis

What is a Skin Biopsy?

A skin biopsy is a minor surgical procedure in which a small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope. It is the gold-standard method for diagnosing skin cancer, inflammatory rashes, autoimmune conditions, and rare skin diseases.

At Skinhorizon Clinic, biopsies are performed exclusively by our consultant dermatologist in a sterile, controlled setting. The tissue is then analysed by a consultant dermatopathologist, ensuring the highest diagnostic accuracy. This partnership between clinical expertise and laboratory analysis provides clarity, guiding safe and effective treatment.

When is it recommended?

Biopsy is advised when a skin condition cannot be diagnosed confidently on clinical grounds alone. Common indications include:

• Suspicious moles: Possible melanoma, atypical naevi
• Precancerous lesions: Actinic keratosis, Bowen’s disease
• Skin cancers: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma
• Unexplained rashes: Lichenoid, vesiculobullous, or vasculitic eruptions
• Autoimmune/auto-inflammatory conditions: Lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, vasculitis
• Hair & scalp disorders: Cicatricial alopecia, unusual alopecia patterns
• Infections: Deep fungal, mycobacterial, or atypical viral lesions

In many cases, biopsy is essential to confirm diagnosis, stage disease, and plan appropriate management.

Types of Skin Biopsy

• Punch biopsy: A circular blade removes a small core of skin (ideal for rashes and autoimmune conditions).
• Shave biopsy: A thin slice of raised lesion is removed (useful for superficial cancers, seborrhoeic keratoses, warts).
• Excisional biopsy: The entire lesion is removed with a margin (recommended for suspected melanoma or larger lesions).
• Incisional biopsy: A portion of a large lesion is removed when full excision is impractical.

How it works

1. Consultation: Clinical examination and discussion of concerns.
2. Consent: Risks, benefits, and aftercare explained.
3. Local anaesthetic: Injection to numb the area.
4. Biopsy procedure: Punch, shave, or excision performed depending on indication.
5. Specimen handling: Tissue sent to dermatopathology for analysis.
6. Aftercare: Wound dressed, aftercare advice provided.
7. Results: Consultant reviews findings with you in follow-up.

What can it help diagnose?

A biopsy is the definitive test for many skin conditions. It helps differentiate between benign, precancerous, and malignant lesions, and clarifies causes of chronic rashes. Examples include:

• Melanoma vs benign mole
• Basal cell carcinoma vs seborrhoeic keratosis
• Psoriasis vs eczema vs drug eruption
• Lupus erythematosus vs lichen planus
• Cicatricial alopecia vs alopecia areata
• Deep fungal vs bacterial infection

Preparation

• Inform your consultant about blood thinners, aspirin, or bleeding disorders.
• Avoid applying creams or ointments to the biopsy site beforehand.
• Wear loose clothing to reduce friction on the wound after the procedure.
• Arrange for follow-up to discuss results, usually within 1–2 weeks.

Safety & limitations

Skin biopsy is a safe, minor procedure. Risks include mild bleeding, infection, scarring, or pigment change at the site. Limitations: a biopsy samples only part of a lesion, so rarely further excision may be needed for complete diagnosis or treatment.

Results & follow-up

Histopathology reports are typically available within 1–2 weeks. Your consultant will review results, explain findings, and advise next steps — whether reassurance, medication, surgical excision, or referral to oncology if required. This ensures that every patient receives precise, personalised care based on objective evidence.

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Disclaimer: Diagnostic tests at Skinhorizon are provided only where clinically appropriate and must be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional. Results alone do not replace a medical diagnosis, and further consultation may be required.