Evaluation
The evaluation of a skin biopsy can be done quickly or be available only after a few days. Usually the skin sample is placed in a solution and sent to a special facility. This is where the final evaluation takes place.
For evaluation, the sample can be prepared in such a way that it can be viewed under a microscope. Either a dermatologist or a pathologist will perform the analysis. The density of the skin is also often measured in order to make further statements.
Afterwards, the treating physician is informed about the result of the skin biopsy. Rarely is it possible that after the biopsy is taken, the sample is evaluated on site. However, high costs for the necessary equipment are incurred for this. Therefore, this is not to be expected in small medical practices or small hospitals.
Risks
There are some risks associated with skin biopsy due to the removal of skin. However, there are usually no complications, as the wound resulting from the biopsy is very small. Nevertheless, this invasive procedure can cause bleeding.
However, the bleeding is not very severe and should stop on its own after some time. A bruise may also develop in the area of the biopsy. This will persist for some time.
As the skin is a barrier, the risk of infection is also increased, just as with an injury. There may be a local infection of bacteria or, in rare cases, an infection of the bloodstream. In addition, a reaction to the local anaesthetic may be seen. This is due to an intolerance and can be caused by a redness or symptoms like an allergy. The risk of a reaction to the local anaesthetic is also low.
How fast does the biopsy wound heal?
In general, the biopsy wound should heal as quickly as an abrasion. This means that a crust should have formed within a few days in a punch biopsy. However, it can take up to two weeks for the wound to heal completely.
It can also happen that the miracle-workers are sutured together by the doctor during a skin biopsy. If self-absorbable sutures are not used, they should be removed within seven to ten days after the biopsy. After that, further healing takes place within up to two weeks, during which time the areas where the sutures were placed heal.