Shave skin biopsy

Growth on skin, with cross-section of layers of skin and fat, and growth being removed from surface of skin with razor.

A shave skin biopsy is done to remove a growth from the skin. The doctor uses a local anesthetic to numb the area. Then the growth is shaved off using a surgical knife (scalpel) or special razor. The biopsy area is then covered with a bandage.

After the growth is removed, a doctor trained to look at tissue samples (pathologist) will check it for cell changes, such as cancer. The pathologist also may do tests to detect an infection caused by a virus, a fungus, or bacteria.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: November 16, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.

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