Shave Skin Biopsy

A shave skin biopsy is done to remove a small growth by scraping it off using a surgical knife (scalpel). The biopsy area is then covered with a bandage.

After the growth is removed, a doctor trained to look at tissue samples (pathologist) will check it for abnormalities, such as cancer. The pathologist also may do tests to detect an infection caused by a virus, a fungus, or bacteria.