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Aries Medical Centre

Can a Family Doctor Do a Skin Biopsy?

Have you ever wondered what happens when a skin biopsy is needed? Knowing the process and who to turn to can be daunting, whether for diagnosing an existing condition or possibly monitoring growth. If your family doctor suggests a biopsy, you may wonder: "Can a family doctor do a skin biopsy?" The answer might surprise you!


In this blog post, we'll explore the ins and outs of skin biopsies and discuss whether or not your family physician can help. Read on to understand better how a skin biopsy works and why it may be necessary for your health!



What Can You Expect During a Skin Biopsy?


A skin biopsy is a small sample of your skin that is removed and studied under a microscope. It can help diagnose or rule out certain conditions.


A skin biopsy is usually performed with a needle or scalpel under local anesthesia. This can be done in a doctor's clinic or an outpatient center. Some procedures require only one small incision, while others require several small incisions to get samples from different areas of the skin.


During a skin biopsy, the doctor will use a scalpel to remove a small piece of skin from your body. The doctor will then send the sample to the lab for analysis. You may need to wait up to 3 weeks before getting your results back.


Depending on the reason for your biopsy, there may be some swelling, redness, pain, or bruising around where you had it done. If this happens, talk to your doctor so they can give you instructions on how to handle these symptoms.


If you have any questions about how a skin biopsy works or would like more information about what to expect when one is done, please don't hesitate to ask us!


Does Family Doctor Perform a Skin Biopsy?


Generally, a skin biopsy is a procedure performed by a dermatologist or family doctor to determine the cause of skin lesions. A biopsy involves removing a small amount of tissue from the affected area and determining whether it is benign or malignant.


Family doctors perform a skin biopsy to diagnose skin conditions. They do not typically perform a skin biopsy as part of a routine physical exam, but they may if they suspect something is wrong with your skin.


Family doctors may perform a skin biopsy when there are signs of cancer or another serious condition on the surface of your skin. For example, if you have a mole that has changed in color, shape, or size, your doctor may recommend a skin biopsy to determine if it is malignant.


In some cases, family doctors may also perform a skin biopsy as part of the treatment for specific conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. For example, suppose these conditions are causing inflammation or irritation on your skin. In that case, your doctor may recommend removing part of the affected area and examining it under a microscope to determine the most effective treatment for you.


And If you have noticed any changes in your skin, it's essential to see your family doctor as soon as possible so they can perform a skin biopsy.


This procedure is typically painless, and the results are usually available within 48 hours.


Frequently Asked Questions


What Is Skin Biopsy?


A skin biopsy is a procedure in which a small piece of skin is removed from your body and analyzed by a doctor. Skin biopsies diagnose and monitor various skin conditions, including basal cell carcinoma, actinic keratosis, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, or psoriasis.


Skin biopsies are usually taken from the back, chest, abdomen, or buttocks. Sometimes, taking samples from the neck or face may be necessary.


How Do I Know If I Need a Skin Biopsy?


Your doctor may recommend a skin biopsy as part of your treatment plan if they notice changes in your skin that suggest an underlying condition or disease. There are several reasons why your doctor might recommend a skin biopsy. These include:

  • Changes in pigmentation, such as red patches or brown spots on the skin.

  • Skin lesions that are irregularly shaped or have a border (also known as "borderline" lesions).

  • You have been diagnosed with melanoma or another type of cancer (including rare forms of cancer)

  • You have a condition that causes your body to produce too many skin cells (such as psoriasis)

How Long Do I Need To Wait For The Results Of My Skin Biopsy?


Knowing how long you should wait for the results is essential if you have had a skin biopsy. Most doctors recommend that you wait at least one week before calling them. It is because a skin biopsy can take some time to process. Some tests require more than one day, and others may take several days before the results are ready. If your doctor told you that they would call you back within 24 hours of performing the test, then it is best to wait until this time has passed before calling them, even if it has been longer than 24 hours since your appointment.


However, if you need help with your skin, we at Aries Medical Centre are here to help you with your skin concerns. If you have any further questions or want to make an appointment, please don't hesitate to contact us.

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