Skin biopsy involves obtaining a small sample of skin or a skin lesion to gain detailed insights into specific diseases, infections, growths, or tumors. This diagnostic procedure is particularly valuable for addressing challenging or deep-seated infections, immune-mediated diseases, and distinguishing between benign and malignant growths. Its versatility makes it a crucial tool for meeting various […]
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A skin biopsy is usually painless. Before conducting the biopsy, the pet is sedated, and a local anesthetic is injected just below the skin at the biopsy site. This ensures numbness of the area, which can last for 2-3 hours after the procedure.
A skin biopsy is generally a quick procedure, with the exact duration varying based on factors such as the number and location of sites being biopsied and the speed of sedation for the individual. The typical timeframe for the procedure can range from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Biopsy results typically require 2-4 weeks to be processed. After obtaining samples, they are preserved and sent to a laboratory for processing and tissue staining. Subsequently, the samples are sent to a dermatopathologist* for thorough review and analysis. Once the dermatopathologist records their findings, they are shared with the veterinary dermatologist for further review and […]
Commonly, biopsies result in minimal side effects, such as itching or pain at the biopsy site, as well as potential swelling or bleeding. In the event of severe instances of these effects, pet parents should contact PetDerm immediately or their primary veterinarian if it is outside of PetDerm’s business hours. As a precautionary measure, it […]
When scheduling a biopsy, pet owners are advised to have their animals fast the night before, as sedation or anesthesia might be required. Additionally, they should refrain from cleaning, bathing, or applying medication to the skin lesions being sampled. A PetDerm team member will provide you with more details upon booking the biopsy.