When it comes to diagnosing skin conditions, especially skin cancers, a biopsy is one of the most reliable tools available to doctors in New Zealand.

A biopsy is a simple medical procedure where a small sample of skin is removed and examined under a microscope. This allows a specialist to accurately determine if a mole, lesion, or patch of skin is benign, pre-cancerous, or cancerous.

From Auckland to Dunedin, and across the country, skin cancer rates are among the highest in the world, making timely and accurate diagnosis essential.

There are several types of skin biopsies, including shave, punch, and excisional biopsies.

Your doctor will choose the most suitable method depending on the size, shape, and depth of the area being tested.

While the idea of a biopsy can sound intimidating, most procedures are quick, performed under local anaesthetic, and involve minimal discomfort.

The tissue sample is then sent to a pathology lab for detailed analysis, and results are typically available within 10 business days. For quicker results, Skin Institute’s SkyLab service offers results in 5-7 working days. This service costs from $200.

A biopsy is not only used when skin cancer is suspected. It can also be essential in diagnosing inflammatory skin conditions, infections, or other unusual growths.

If your nurse or doctor recommends a biopsy, it is to ensure you receive the correct diagnosis and the most effective treatment plan.

In cases of skin cancer, early detection through a biopsy can make a life-saving difference.