Biopsy tomorrow
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Biopsy tomorrow

› Forums › General Melanoma Community › Biopsy tomorrow

  • Post
    • October 1, 2018 at 9:07 pm
    AmberM
    Participant

    Hi all,

    I have a very suspicious suddenly black/purple fast growing nodule on my back and am being seen tomorrow in Derm for a biopsy. In the past when I have had a skin biopsy it's been shave biopsy. I am staying away from "Dr. Google" but have read some here. Is it better/prefered to have a punch biopsy? I want to make sure I am the best advocate for myself at my appointment tomorrow. I don't want to just go with a shave biopsy if a punch is better.

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      • October 1, 2018 at 9:55 pm
      Janner
      Participant

      Shave biopsies can bisect a lesion.  If the lesion is suspected melanoma, you do NOT want the lesion bisected.  The depth is the most important prognostic factor and a bisected lesion loses that important info.

      So, you can ask for a punch biopsy.  If he won't do that, request a DEEP SHAVE.  Tell him you don't want the lesion bisected so it had better be deep enough to get clear deep margins.

        • October 1, 2018 at 10:38 pm
        AmberM
        Participant

        Thank you! I will make sure the doctor does a punch biopsy. 

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