Generally, patients need to make few preparations before a biopsy test. Preparations that may be necessary include:

• Avoid vaccinations two weeks before the biopsy, as they may cause fever
  
  
• Stop taking anticoagulants (medications that help prevent blood clotting) if directed by a physician
  
  
• Take any preventative antibiotics prescribed by a physician prior to the biopsy

There may be additional instructions such as restrictions for eating and drinking depending on the type of anesthesia to be used in the procedure.

It is important to discuss any health issues with a physician prior to a biopsy. For example, patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, have any allergies or have a history of bleeding problems. It is especially important to inform the physician of any history of reaction to anesthetic or to iodine-type solutions (which often are used to clean the skin prior to the procedure). Patients should also inform their physician of all medications and supplements they are taking, including over-the-counter and herbal medications. Antiinflammatory medications, aspirin and vitamin E are of particular concern because they can cause bleeding.

Before the procedure begins, the patient is usually advised about which type of procedure will be used to remove the tissue, how much tissue will be taken and what type of scar (if any) may result from the procedure.

The actual biopsy procedure can vary depending on the nature of the lesion to be tested and the type of biopsy procedure being utilized. Most biopsies are performed in a physician’s office on an outpatient basis. Prior to the procedure, the patient may be asked to change into a gown or to remove an article of clothing to facilitate access to the test site.

The skin is then cleaned with an iodine-type solution, alcohol or another substance. It is important that the patient not touch the incision area once the skin has been cleaned.

An anesthetic such as lidocaine is administered either through a local injection or a topical application. Patients may feel a brief prick or sting as the anesthetic is being administered. The actual procedure itself unfolds differently depending on the type of skin biopsy that is performed. In general, the following takes place during the biopsy:

1. The physician selects a scalpel, skin punch or other suitable instrument, depending on the amount of tissue to be removed.
   
   
2. The physician makes an incision and the tissue specimen is removed from the patient. The specimen is immediately placed in a labeled container.
   
   
3. Bandages, ointment or sutures are used to treat the remaining wound, as needed.