What kind of biopsy is done for basal cell carcinoma?

To examine a tumor that may have grown into deeper layers of the skin, the doctor may use an excisional (or less often, an incisional) biopsy. An excisional biopsy removes the entire tumor. An incisional biopsy removes only a portion of the tumor.

What type of biopsy is used for BCC?

Skin Biopsy In most cases, a superficial biopsy specimen that contains dermis is all that is required to confirm the diagnosis of BCC, although it is possible to miss the tumor.

How big is an excision for basal cell carcinoma?

Excision is one treatment option for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Low-risk BCC is often excised with a 4-mm margin. 2 Low-risk SCC is often excised with a 4 to 6 mm margin. 5 Depending on location and size, the incision may be left to close on its own.

How is an excisional biopsy used for skin cancer?

Incisional and excisional biopsies. An excisional biopsy removes the entire tumor. For these types of biopsies, a surgical knife is used to cut through the full thickness of skin. A wedge or sliver of skin is removed for examination, and the edges of the wound are usually stitched together.

How big is the incision for BCC excision?

Low-risk BCC is often excised with a 4-mm margin. 2 Low-risk SCC is often excised with a 4 to 6 mm margin. 5 Depending on location and size, the incision may be left to close on its own. Alternatively, your doctor may close it with stitches or repair it with a skin graft.

Can you cure basal and squamous cell skin cancer?

If the biopsy removes the entire tumor, it’s often enough to cure basal and squamous cell skin cancers without further treatment. There are different types of skin biopsies. The doctor will choose one based on the suspected type of skin cancer, where it is on your body, its size, and other factors.

What kind of biopsy is done for basal cell carcinoma? To examine a tumor that may have grown into deeper layers of the skin, the doctor may use an excisional (or less often, an incisional) biopsy. An excisional biopsy removes the entire tumor. An incisional biopsy removes only a portion of the tumor. What type…