If your dermatologist requested a biopsy on your atypical mole, it may not necessarily mean anything serious. In fact, biopsies are common.
Dermatologists regularly do biopsies on suspicious skin areas, and it’s a quick way to confirm or rule out melanoma. According to Dr. Cecilia Larocca, a dermatologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, only about one out of every 12 biopsies turns out to be a melanoma.
Read More If your mole went to the lab for a biopsy, the waiting period can be stressful. But rest assured knowing that your mole most likely isn’t cancerous. “Don’t fear if your dermatologist is doing a biopsy,” Dr. Larocca emphasizes. “They’re not always because we know without a doubt that there is melanoma.” Biopsies offer the most accurate diagnosis, so if you’re ever unsure about a mole or lesion on your skin, always visit your dermatologist for a
skin assessment. And remember, early detection is key in the fight against melanoma.
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Dr. Cecilia Larocca is a dermatologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Read More