Biopsies
Medical Procedures
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About biopsies
Biopsies are performed to confirm a diagnosis when Dr. Steele Johnson cannot say for certain what a lesion or rash is without microscopic analysis of the cells. This is often the case when trying to confirm the diagnosis of a skin cancer or atypical/dysplastic mole/nevus. In these cases, only a small portion of the growth or rash is sampled to send to the lab so we can determine the best treatment plan for the entire lesion or rash.
If you have any new or changing moles in adulthood, be sure to get them examined by a Board-certified dermatologist. Schedule an appointment with Steele Dermatology online or give us a call at (770) 464-6000.
The lesion is numbed with a lidocaine shot first then a portion of the lesion is shaved off with a blade (you’re numb) or a small “punch” core of the rash is taken. In the case of a punch biopsy for a rash, you will get 1 or 2 small stitches to pull the skin back together.
Recovery is minimal for either a shave or punch biopsy. You can mostly return to all normal activities. You should keep the area covered with a bandage until your follow up in 1-2 weeks.
If a cancer diagnosis is confirmed, Dr. Steele Johnson may recommend excision.