What is a Skin Biopsy (11–15 specimens)?

A Skin Biopsy is a minor surgical procedure used to obtain skin samples for laboratory (histological) examination. The 11–15 specimen option is designed for patients with multiple lesions or widespread skin conditions requiring extensive sampling in one appointment.

Biopsies may be performed using punch, shave, incisional, or excisional techniques, depending on the clinical indication and lesion characteristics. Each specimen is individually labelled and reported to ensure precise correlation with biopsy sites.

Why might I need 11–15 skin biopsies?

Certain dermatological and oncological conditions require sampling from multiple sites to establish a diagnosis, assess disease extent, or guide treatment planning.

You may need 11–15 skin biopsies if you have:

• Numerous suspicious or changing skin lesions
• Widespread inflammatory or autoimmune skin disease
• Multiple non-healing or recurrent lesions
• Lesions with varied appearance across different body areas
• Conditions requiring mapping or comparative histology
• Previous inconclusive biopsy results

Biopsy techniques used

The technique is selected based on lesion type and location:

Punch biopsy

Removes a small, full-thickness core of skin for detailed analysis.

Shave biopsy

Samples superficial lesions, commonly used for raised or epidermal growths.

Incisional biopsy

Removes part of a larger lesion when full excision is not initially appropriate.

Excisional biopsy

Removes the entire lesion with margins, often used when malignancy is suspected.

Benefits of the 11–15 specimen skin biopsy service

1. Extensive assessment in one visit
   Reduces the need for multiple appointments.
2. Accurate, site-specific diagnosis
   Each specimen analysed and reported separately.
3. Local anaesthetic only
   Comfortable outpatient procedure.
4. Efficient for complex cases
   Ideal for widespread or multifocal skin disease.
5. Supports early cancer detection
   Enables timely identification of malignant changes.
6. Minimal downtime
   Most patients return to normal activities quickly.
7. Clear reporting and traceability
   Each biopsy site clearly documented.
8. Structured aftercare and follow-up
   Results reviewed with clear next steps.

Step-by-step – How the procedure works

1. Clinical assessment and consent
2. Identification and marking of 11–15 biopsy sites
3. Local anaesthetic administered to each area
4. Biopsies performed using appropriate techniques
5. Wounds closed or dressed as required
6. Specimens sent for histological analysis
7. Aftercare instructions provided
8. Follow-up arranged for results review

All biopsies are performed in clinic. Home visits are not available for biopsy procedures.

Recovery & results

After the biopsies

• Mild discomfort or tenderness at biopsy sites
• Dressings applied; stitches used where required
• Most patients resume normal activity within 24–48 hours

Histology results

• Each specimen reported individually
• Confirms diagnosis and excludes malignancy
• Results usually available within 1–2 weeks