Psoriasis is a common medical condition. However, that doesn’t mean it’s always easy to diagnose. Lots of skin conditions cause rashes and irritation, which means doctors might need to check for other issues before making their diagnosis. For some patients, a psoriasis biopsy can be helpful during this process. However, it’s not necessary for all patients. Read on to learn if you might need a psoriasis biopsy.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a condition that causes red patches to develop on a person’s skin. Most patients find their symptoms come in waves, called flare-ups. Flare-ups can be triggered by a number of things, including stress, infections, and temperature changes. While the exact cause of psoriasis isn’t known, doctors believe that it is an immune system issue.
Do I Need a Psoriasis Biopsy?
A psoriasis biopsy can help doctors diagnose your condition and determine its severity. However, not all patients will need a biopsy. Some doctors can diagnose you just by viewing your plaques or by ruling out other conditions. Biopsies are also ordered if your doctors suspect a more serious skin condition, such as cancer.
What to Expect During a Biopsy
If you need a biopsy, then you might be worried. However, these procedures are quick and very routine. Your doctor will most likely order a punch biopsy, which uses a small tool to remove a skin sample. These are outpatient procedures, which means they are done quickly and you can go home straight after. While the biopsy site will be sore for a day or two, you should have a very easy recovery.
Talk to Your Dermatologist
Your doctor will call you after your biopsy to talk about the results. If you have psoriasis, then a care routine will be created for you. You might need to try several different medications before you find the right treatment, so stay in touch with your doctor during this process.
Get Help For Your Skin Condition
Whether you need a psoriasis biopsy or another type of skin treatment, Care Dermatology is here to help. Our skincare experts will work with you to create a treatment that meets your unique needs. Click the link above to book your appointment.