Biopsy Principles Flashcards
What are the three ways to do a skin biopsy?
Punch
Shave
Excision
What are the characteristics of a punch?
Use like a pencil
Variable diameter
Forceps
Scissors
What are the advantages of the punch?
Can vary the depth but can get full thickness
If a small lesion, then it is excisional
Good for a representative sample
What are the disadvantages of the punch?
Usually not excisional
Scar potential
Larger sizes are hard to close nicely.
What are the characteristics of the shave biopsy?
Blade
Prep or scalpel
Technique controls swath
What are the advantages of the shave biopsy?
Versatile
Less scarring potential
Quick
What are the disadvantages of the shave biopsy?
Not full thickness
Unless shallow, not curative
What do you use for an excisional biopsy?
a scalpel
What are the advantages of an excisional biopsy?
For many lesions, curative
Margins
Pathologist has lots to work with for a
diagnosis
What are the disadvantages of an excisional biopsy?
Takes longer Will have a scar More invasive Infection Bleeding
How does a FNA (fine needle aspiration work)?
Uses suction to gather cells
Pathologist loses context
What are the four ways to destroy something suspicious?
E/M (electrocautery and lasers)
Nitrogen
Petrochemicals
Pharmacologic
