A 42-year-old member asked:
Anyone ever heard of doing an incisional biopsy to diagnose skin rash?
2 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in

Dr. Michael Fisheranswered
Dermatology 34 years experience
Punch biopsy: Punch biopsy is considered the primary technique to obtain diagnostic, full-thickness skin specimens. It is performed using a circular blade or trephine attached to a pencil-like handle. The instrument is rotated down through the epidermis and dermis, and into the subcutaneous fat. The punch biopsy yields a cylindrical core of tissue that must be gently handled (usually with a needle).
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Jennifer Haleyanswered
Dermatology 25 years experience
Possibly: Incisional biopsy rather than punch biopsy is often necessary to diagnose inflammatory conditions that may involve the fat or deeper vessels.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 30, 2016
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