Shave, Punch or Excisional Skin Biopsy: What Is Being Sampled?
SkinArticleAsk which part of the skin the proposed biopsy will sample and what the laboratory needs to examine.
In this article
Compare what the names describe
AAD explains that the suspected condition and the growth’s size help determine the biopsy technique. The names describe different ways of collecting tissue for examination.1
| Biopsy type | What AAD describes |
|---|---|
| Shave | Removes the top layers of skin. |
| Punch | Collects multiple layers of skin with a tube-shaped tool. |
| Excisional | Removes the entire growth. |
| Incisional | Removes part of the growth when the entire growth cannot be removed. |
Source: AAD.1
Ask about your proposed sample
You could ask: “Which type are you proposing, what will it sample, and what question does the laboratory need to answer?”1
Keep sampling and further care separate
The dermatologist reviews the laboratory report to decide whether further treatment is needed. Removing an entire growth for a biopsy does not by itself establish that care is complete.1
Skin, Head to Toe includes a visit script. Use it to organize the questions you want answered before agreeing to a procedure. Explore the skin playbook.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
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Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- American Academy of Dermatology, 2022What is a skin biopsy? (opens in a new tab)abcd
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