Biopsies are a diagnostic test that we use to help check for signs of disease. The two main types of biopsies performed in our office are shave biopsies, where a surgical blade is used to shave off a piece of tissue, and punch biopsies, where a skin punch is used to core out a piece of tissue.
The pieces of tissue are sent to a pathologist who will examine the specimen to determine causality or pathology. From there, your dermatologist can better determine the course of treatment for your condition.