Taking a biopsy is one of the most common techniques used in diagnosing skin diseases. The piece of skin removed is sent for pathological examination. This examination is carried out by doctors who are specialists in pathology. Pathological diagnosis is the gold standard in the diagnosis of many skin diseases.

Before a biopsy is taken, patients should be questioned about possible biopsy-related complications. Among medical conditions, heart disease, a stroke within the last 6 months and circulatory disorders known as peripheral vascular disease are particularly important. Any allergy to antibiotics or anaesthetic agents must be reported to the doctor. A weakened immune system, an artificial heart valve or the presence of a prosthesis may require antibiotics to be given before the biopsy. The medications the patient is taking are reviewed with regard to wound healing or bleeding.

A skin biopsy is a procedure that helps establish a more definitive diagnosis. The most commonly used biopsy technique in dermatology is the punch biopsy. It is a simple, easy, quick method that can be used anywhere on the body. A punch biopsy uses a sharp-tipped, cylindrical instrument called a punch, which cuts a round, cylindrical piece from the skin. Apart from punch biopsy, shave and fusiform (elliptical) biopsies can also be performed.

The risk of complications after a biopsy is very low. Possible complications include pain, bleeding, infection and scarring.