Skin biopsy: Biopsy issues in specific diseases

Misdiagnosis may result from biopsy site selection, technique, or choice of transport media. Important potential sources of error include false-negative direct immunofluorescence results based on poor site selection, uninformative biopsy specimens based on both site selection and technique, and spur...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 2016-01, Vol.74 (1), p.1
Main Authors: Elston, Dirk M, Stratman, Erik J, Miller, Stanley J
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Biopsy, Needle - methods
Education, Medical, Continuing
Female
Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Direct
Hair Diseases - pathology
Humans
Immunohistochemistry
Male
Panniculitis - pathology
Sensitivity and Specificity
Skin - pathology
Skin Diseases - diagnosis
Skin Diseases - pathology
Skin Neoplasms - pathology
Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome - pathology
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome - pathology
Vasculitis - pathology
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Summary:Misdiagnosis may result from biopsy site selection, technique, or choice of transport media. Important potential sources of error include false-negative direct immunofluorescence results based on poor site selection, uninformative biopsy specimens based on both site selection and technique, and spurious interpretations of pigmented lesions and nonmelanoma skin cancer based on biopsy technique. Part I of this 2-part continuing medical education article addresses common pitfalls involving site selection and biopsy technique in the diagnosis of bullous diseases, vasculitis, panniculitis, connective tissue diseases, drug eruptions, graft-versus-host disease, staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome, hair disorders, and neoplastic disorders. Understanding these potential pitfalls can result in improved diagnostic yield and patient outcomes.
ISSN:1097-6787
DOI:10.1016/j.jaad.2015.06.033