A shave biopsy is a common dermatologic procedure used to evaluate raised skin lesions and certain suspicious growths. Unlike a punch biopsy, which removes a deeper sample of skin, a shave biopsy removes a thin layer from the surface using a specialized blade.
Why Is a Shave Biopsy Performed?
A shave biopsy can help diagnose a variety of skin concerns, including:
- Moles and pigmented lesions
- Skin tags
- Seborrheic keratoses
- Precancerous growths
- Certain forms of skin cancer
- Other raised or abnormal skin lesions
In many cases, the procedure serves both a diagnostic and therapeutic purpose by removing the lesion while also providing tissue for laboratory analysis.
What Happens During a Shave Biopsy?
After numbing the area with a local anesthetic, Dr. Strachan carefully removes the lesion using a precise shaving technique. Because the procedure generally does not extend deep into the skin, stitches are usually not necessary.
The tissue sample is sent to a pathology laboratory for examination, allowing for an accurate diagnosis.
Recovery and Healing
Most patients experience minimal discomfort after a shave biopsy. The area typically heals over several weeks, similar to a superficial scrape or abrasion. Proper wound care is important to support healing and minimize scarring.
Why Pathology Matters
Even lesions that appear harmless can occasionally reveal unexpected findings under microscopic examination. For this reason, laboratory analysis plays an important role in confirming a diagnosis and guiding any additional treatment that may be needed.