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While they are generally considered to be safe procedures, there is a possibility of certain complications arising after a skin biopsy. This is why it is important for you to discuss these risk factors with your health care provider prior to your surgery. Apart from the risks, you should also discuss how to care for the site of the biopsy at home so as to lessen the chances of complications such as infections arising.

Risks Involved In a Skin Biopsy

• The risk of infection after the skin biopsy
• Bleeding after the skin biopsy from the site of the biopsy
• Severe pain after the anesthetic has worn off
• Allergic reactions to the anesthetic used during the skin biopsy
• Formation of scar tissue or keloids can occur especially if you are a smoker
• Healing may be delayed if you are a diabetic or suffer from other chronic conditions

The biggest risk is the risk of infection. In order to minimize this risk, you will need to take certain precautions. Talk to your healthcare provider about how to take proper care of the biopsy site. Some of the steps that may be suggested include:

• Keep the site of the biopsy clean by swabbing it with a cotton swab dipped in a sterile solution such as iodine
• Dry the biopsy site using a dry cotton swab and using a gentle dabbing motion
• Apply a sterile bandage over the biopsy site for a few days afterwards
• Avoid letting the area of the skin biopsy get wet while showering till such time as the wound has healed completely

Signs of infection After Skin Biopsy

• Inflammation at the site
• Skin turning red and puffy
• Pain
• Excessive bleeding
• Any discharge from the site of the biopsy
• Fever and chills

Any of these symptoms may be cause for concern and should be reported immediately to your health care provider. Infections may be cause for great concern especially in the case of persons with other conditions such as diabetes and immune system disorders. Left untreated, infections may lead to severe complications including amputation and for this reason should not be taken lightly.

Infection is usually treated with antibiotics which may be prescribed in either oral or intravenous form depending on its severity and the overall health of the person.

Reference

• http://www.med.nyu.edu/content?ChunkIID=14861