Skin Biopsy (cont.)

Adult Skin Problems Slideshow Pictures

Quiz: Can You Identify These Skin Conditions?

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Medical Author:

Darilyn Campbell Falck, MD

Coauthor:

Troy M Falck, MD

Medical Editor:

Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD

Medical Editor:

Thomas Rebbecchi, MD, FAAEM

Risks

You should discuss with your doctor the following potential risks and complications of the biopsy procedure. You will need to sign a consent form before the procedure.

Possible risks include these:

Bleeding from the biopsy site
Pain
Local reaction to the anesthetic
Infection
Healing problems - If you tend to form large scars (keloids), you have an increased chance of forming a scar over the biopsy site. Smoking and some chronic medical conditions such as diabetes affect the healing ability of the skin.