Psoriasis Biopsy

[Fred]

If you're told you need a Psoriasis Biopsy also known as skin biopsy, don't worry it's not as bad as it sounds. I have had three Psoriasis Biopsy's and didn't feel a thing. One was given as a test and taken from the top of my leg, another I donated for research which was taken from my back, and I've had another from a scalp pustule.

It's a simple procedure:

• You will probably be asked to sign a form to give consent and to accept the local anaesthetic.
  
• Your skin at the chosen site will be cleaned with a sterilizing solution.
  
• Next you will be given a local anaesthetic by needle into the chosen site. It doesn't hurt but may give a very slight stinging sensation for a second
  
• There are different types of Psoriasis Biopsy but they all involve taking a very small piece of your skin, usually around 2-4 mm Square.
  
• Depending on the depth you may be given a stitch. this will be removed in a few days, although mine fell out by themselves.
  
• Next you get a plaster.
  
• If you have been really brave you may get a Lollipop.
  

And that's it, your biopsy will be taken to the laboratory and examined. you should get the results in a few days, unless you have donated your biopsy, in which case you will get no results. You may end up with a very small light patch where the skin was taken from, but it's hardly noticeable.

So if your dermatologist tells you they would like to do a Psoriasis Biopsy, just go with it and ask them if you could have the Red Lollipop

The hospital I go to is a large training hospital and I have told my dermatologist if ever they need another biopsy of my skin they are welcome. Maybe think of asking your dermatologist if they would like a biopsy of your skin for research, it don't hurt and you could be helping psoriasis research.