Biopsy tomorrow

› Forums › General Melanoma Community › Biopsy tomorrow

  • Post
    • October 1, 2018 at 9:07 pm
    AmberM
    Participant

      Hi all,

      I have a very suspicious suddenly black/purple fast growing nodule on my back and am being seen tomorrow in Derm for a biopsy. In the past when I have had a skin biopsy it's been shave biopsy. I am staying away from "Dr. Google" but have read some here. Is it better/prefered to have a punch biopsy? I want to make sure I am the best advocate for myself at my appointment tomorrow. I don't want to just go with a shave biopsy if a punch is better.

    Viewing 0 reply threads
    • Replies
        • October 1, 2018 at 9:55 pm
        Janner
        Participant

          Shave biopsies can bisect a lesion.  If the lesion is suspected melanoma, you do NOT want the lesion bisected.  The depth is the most important prognostic factor and a bisected lesion loses that important info.

          So, you can ask for a punch biopsy.  If he won't do that, request a DEEP SHAVE.  Tell him you don't want the lesion bisected so it had better be deep enough to get clear deep margins.

            • October 1, 2018 at 10:38 pm
            AmberM
            Participant

              Thank you! I will make sure the doctor does a punch biopsy. 

        Viewing 0 reply threads
        • You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
        About the MRF Patient Forum

        The MRF Patient Forum is the oldest and largest online community of people affected by melanoma. It is designed to provide peer support and information to caregivers, patients, family and friends. There is no better place to discuss different parts of your journey with this cancer and find the friends and support resources to make that journey more bearable.

        The information on the forum is open and accessible to everyone. To add a new topic or to post a reply, you must be a registered user. Please note that you will be able to post both topics and replies anonymously even though you are logged in. All posts must abide by MRF posting policies.

        Popular Topics