Four Reasons Why You May Need a Skin Biopsy

Are you suspicious of a mole that you've been noticing on your body?  Do you have a family history of melanoma or skin cancer?  When you have strange or concerning issues on your skin, you will not want to hesitate to contact your dermatologist.  Once you get to your appointment, your doctor may suggest that you have a skin biopsy so that your cell samples can be tested in a lab for dermatopathology in Pittsburgh, PA.  These biopsies are typically minimally-invasive procedures depending on the severity of the expected diagnosis.  There are a few reasons why you may need a skin biopsy to test for an illness.

Dermatitis

Typically, dermatitis is categorized by skin inflammation that appears to be red and swollen.  If it is uncomfortable, dry, or irritating, you will want to see a doctor for treatment options.  Typically, dermatitis can be treated with topical prescription of over-the-counter creams, oils, and lotions.  However, in some more severe cases, you may have sores, rashes, or poor blood circulation that creates larger issues.

Skin Cancers

One of the most common reasons that you may need to have a skin biopsy is to rule out a skin cancer diagnosis.  From basal cell carcinoma to melanoma, there are a few different types of skin cancer that you will want to test for.  By engaging in frequent skin check-ups, you will be able to increase the likelihood that cancers are caught in their early stages.  Early detection is the best preventative measure when you are concerned about the threat of cancer, as you can catch it and treat it before it spreads throughout your body.

Actinic Keratosis

These rough, scaly patches develop on the skin from having years of exposure to the sun.  Actinic keratosis typically appears after the age of 40 in individuals that have spent many hours in the sun.  When detected early, this skin condition can be treated.  However, if it is left untreated, it can develop into skin cancer in roughly 5-10% of patients.

Skin Infections

Common skin infections include cellulitis, impetigo, furuncles, and folliculitis.  These diseases are caused by different strains of bacteria, and they differ in their severity and symptoms.  Cellulitis, for example, is painful and spreading rash-like skin condition that is warm to the touch.  It also might cause a fever.  When you suspect that you are suffering from a skin infection, your dermatologist will want to test skin samples to determine whether you need antibiotics or other medications to treat the disease.

These are a few reasons why your dermatologist will recommend that you have a skin biopsy to send samples for further testing.  If they have reason to suspect that you have a larger concern, illness, or condition that requires further treatment, they will send your samples to a lab for dermatopathology in Pittsburgh, PA.  Contact the experts at Rabkindx to learn about how we handle our lab testing today.