Skin Biopsy
Reviewed
A skin biopsy is a procedure that removes a small sample of skin to be examined under a microscope. It helps diagnose skin conditions such as infections, disorders like psoriasis, and skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma). The type of biopsy (punch, shave, or excisional) depends on the size and location of the abnormal skin area.
Preparation and collection
No special preparation is needed.
Understanding this test
Use the reference interval and units printed by the laboratory that performed the test. A result outside that interval is not a diagnosis by itself, and a result inside it does not rule out every condition. Your symptoms, history, medicines, timing, and related tests can change what the result means.
- A skin biopsy is a procedure, not a laboratory test. The sample is sent to a pathology laboratory for analysis.
- Interpretation of results should be done by a healthcare professional. No reference ranges or units are provided for this test.
- The biopsy may not capture the entire lesion if only a sample is taken; an excisional biopsy removes the whole lesion.
What to do next
Your healthcare provider will explain your specific results and recommend any necessary follow‑up, treatment, or additional testing.