Understanding skin biopsies at Aura Dermatologie

During your consultation, our dermatologist may recommend a skin biopsy. Biopsies are usually recommended to clarify or confirm a diagnosis when we have reached the limits of accuracy that the naked eye and dermoscopic examination can provide. For example, if you present with a complex skin rash, a biopsy may be recommended to better guide your treatment. Another common situation where biopsies are recommended is following a skin cancer screening examination if a suspicious lesion is identified.. Because the majority of skin cancers can be cured and better treated if they are diagnosed early, a skin biopsy is usually the first step towards healing. Dr. Amina Bougrine and her team at Aura Dermatologie in Montreal, Quebec, provide skin cancer screening examinations, skin biopsies, and various in-office treatment options.

What happens during a skin biopsy?

Skin biopsies involve taking a sample of skin using one of 3 different techniques. Our dermatologist will counsel you on the recommended type of biopsy in your specific situation, depending on the location of the skin problem and the amount of tissue that needs to be sampled and analysed in order to guide your treatment. Once the skin sample is taken, it is sent to the pathology laboratory for microscopic analysis.

What types of skin biopsies are performed at Aura Dermatologie?

Dr. Bougrine performs all types of skin biopsies in our office, including:

  • Shave biopsy: this is the most common type of skin biopsy, where a small blade is used to shave off the top layers of skin for examination; sutures (stitches) are not necessary and skin is left to heal naturally.
  • Punch biopsy. A circular tool is used to remove a small cylinder-shaped skin sample, usually deeper than a shave biopsy; sutures (stitches) are placed to help close the skin. This type of biopsy is usually recommended to remove suspicious moles for microscopic examination, or if deeper tissues need to be assessed when diagnosing a skin rash.
  • Elliptical biopsy. this technique is used to remove a larger skin sample in an elliptical shape; sutures (stitches) are placed to help close the skin. This type of biopsy is recommended for example when a large mole needs to be assessed to rule out melanoma.

Why should I have a skin biopsy performed?

Skin biopsies are often required to confirm a diagnosis of skin cancer. Even though the dermatologist’s suspicion may be high based on their visual and dermoscopic examination, a biopsy remains the gold standard to confirm the diagnosis of skin cancer. All or part of the concerning growth is sampled and sent for microscopic analysis. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, our dermatologist will review the result with you and discuss treatment options to help you determine which treatment is best suited for you. Low risk skin cancers can usually be treated in our office. For higher risk skin cancers or if the lesion is located on a special part of the body such as around the eye, patients may be referred. Ro a dermatologist trained in Mohs micrographic surgery or to other specialists for further management.

How do I schedule a skin cancer screening?

If you have a concerning lesion, especially if you have risk factors for skin cancer, or if your treating physician has recommended a skin cancer screening examination, our team at Aura Dermatologie can assist you with a consultation and skin cancer screening and surveillance examination with our board-certified dermatologist. If a biopsy is recommended, it can usually be performed on the same day as your visit. If you are at high risk of developing skin cancer, a yearly skin checks may be recommended. Call (514) 252-3102 to request an appointment at our private dermatology office. At Aura Dermatologie, we also serve patients from  surrounding cities, including Laval, the West Island, and Montreal’s South Shore in Quebec.

This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your doctor.

Dr. Amina Bougrine

Dr. Amina Bougrine

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Dr. Amina Bougrine is a board-certified dermatologist in both Canada and the United States. After obtaining her Bachelor’s degree and her Medical Degree (MDCM, 2009) at McGill University, she completed her residency at Universite de Montreal (2014) and her fellowship in cutaneous oncology at Harvard University (2020).

As a trusted skin specialist, Dr. Amina strives to deliver exceptional medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology services to help patients in Montreal and nearby communities live their best skin.

She is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, Canadian Dermatology Association, and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.