Scan cancer is the general name for a cancer that targets skin cells. However, when it comes to everything from a patient's prognosis to their treatment, identifying the exact type and stage of cancer is critical. Before beginning any skin cancer treatment regimen, your healthcare provider will likely order a biopsy first for this reason. Since an informed patient is the best patient, learn more about what to expect during the biopsy process.
Site Assessment
The process generally begins with an assessment of the site performed by your healthcare provider. Your provider must perform this assessment to check the condition of your skin to determine what level of trauma the area can safely withstand and to decide which type of biopsy is necessary to render relevant results.
Application
The application process for a biopsy will look different based on the type of biopsy the provider deems best. For example, if the area appears to have only targeted the upper layer of skin, a blade might be used to remove a small section, known as a shave biopsy. An excisional biopsy might be performed for a deeper targeted area, which could involve removing a large portion of or the entire affected area.
Post-Biopsy Care
No matter the method used, post-operative care is always essential. As you might imagine, the degree of care necessary after this process is determined based on the method used. However, for most people, this will include keeping the incision site clean and covered and monitoring it for signs of infection, such as redness or swelling. Contact your healthcare provider if any of these symptoms are present.
Laboratory Testing
While healing, your provider will send the biopsy sample to a laboratory for testing. This step is critical because it helps verify if the cells are cancerous, the type of cancer present, and the grade or how aggressive the cancer is. All these factors are the foundation for determining what kind of skin cancer treatment is best suited for your condition.
Results
When you arrive at your post-biopsy appointment, you should expect your healthcare provider to discuss your treatment plan. A topical ointment may be used to destroy the cells for a biopsy that reveals minimal cellular spread and a less aggressive grade. However, with more widespread cell targeting and a higher degree of aggressiveness, chemotherapy, surgical removal, and/or drug therapy might be the prescribed treatment.
If you have any questions about the biopsy and skin cancer treatment process, speak with a healthcare provider.
Share5 April 2023
When we got family pictures taken last time, I realized that something was wrong with my skin. In addition to being blotchy, I was still suffering from embarrassing breakouts. To resolve the problem, I made an appointment with a dermatologist. It was incredible to talk with him, and he had lots of valuable advice. In addition to offering suggestions for ways to avoid breakouts, he also helped me to perfect my skincare routine. You wouldn't believe how much better my skin looks now. This blog is all about perfecting your skincare regimen, so that you don't have to feel shy about your looks.
