Skin Biopsy

Biopsy, Skin

What To Think About

• If the biopsy contains cancer cells, additional surgery will be needed to remove the cancer completely.
• If the biopsy is done on your face, you may want to have it done by a doctor who specializes in surgical techniques that can minimize scarring, such as a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.
• Further testing may be needed if:
  • A small biopsy does not contain enough cells to make an accurate diagnosis.
  • Cells from the abnormal area weren't included in the sample.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: June 19, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
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