Skin Conditions of the Foot & Ankle are Best Diagnosed with a Biopsy

Many skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, contact dermatitis and even “ring worm” look very similar on physical examination. Raised skin lesions like warts, moles, skin tags, and certain cancers of the skin can appear quite similar as well. In both examples, these conditions are all treated quite differently.

A thorough history and physical examination often gives the physician enough information to make a highly educated guess as to the diagnosis of these types of skin lesions. Misdiagnosing skin lesions can prolong the treatment process and even worsen the condition in some cases.

A skin biopsy is the collection of a small piece of skin that is sent to a pathologist for microscopic examination. When viewed under a microscope, the skin condition can be positively identified. Most biopsies can easily be taken in the office setting. A small numbing injection is given to the area of the lesion. Small lesions may be completely excised. A punch core may be taken from the center of large lesions. Raised lesions are generally shaved.

If you have an unknown skin condition on your foot or ankle, call CKPA your foot and ankle specialist for an evaluation and possible skin biopsy.