Punch Biopsy

A punch biopsy is a medical procedure commonly used in dermatology to obtain a small sample of skin tissue for diagnostic purposes. It is typically performed when a skin abnormality, such as a mole, rash, or suspicious lesion, needs further examination. During the procedure, a small, circular tool called a punch biopsy instrument is used to remove a cylindrical section of the skin, including the epidermis, dermis, and sometimes a portion of the subcutaneous fat layer. Local anesthesia is usually administered to numb the area before the biopsy. The collected tissue sample is then sent to a laboratory for microscopic analysis, allowing doctors to evaluate it for various conditions, such as skin infections, inflammatory disorders, or skin cancer. Punch biopsies are generally quick, minimally invasive, and provide valuable information to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.