Skin biopsy for suspected skin cancer

A dermatologist may recommend a biopsy when a mole, patch, sore, or growth has an unusual colour, border, shape, or change. After numbing the skin, the clinician may shave a surface layer, remove a small cylinder with a punch tool, or take the whole visible lesion. The sample is examined for abnormal cells. A biopsy can show that a lesion is benign, precancerous, or cancerous, and the report may identify the type and whether the sample is sufficient for planning.

Tell the clinician about blood-thinning medicines, allergies, bleeding problems, immune conditions, and any tendency to raised scars. Follow the wound-care instructions, usually involving gentle cleaning and a dressing. Do not pick a scab. Ask how to protect the area from friction and sun while it heals, and when the result will be discussed. If cancer is confirmed, the next step may be further removal or another specialist plan.

Contact the treating clinic if bleeding continues despite firm pressure, pain is worsening, or the wound becomes increasingly red, hot, swollen, or draining. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, fever with a rapidly worsening wound, or signs of a serious allergic reaction. A changing lesion should be assessed promptly even when it is not painful.

Ask which biopsy type is planned, what part of the lesion will be sampled, how to manage medicines, when pathology results are expected, and what treatment choices would follow each possible result.