Navigating the journey to skin health can sometimes lead to the need for an excision biopsy, a critical tool in a dermatologist’s arsenal for diagnosing and treating skin conditions. This minor surgical procedure not only plays a pivotal role in dermatology but also embodies hope for numerous patients grappling with skin abnormalities. By sharing real patient stories and explaining the procedure and its aftermath, this article aims to demystify excision biopsies, providing reassurance and knowledge to those who may be facing this procedure.

Sarah, a teacher in her mid-thirties, first noticed a mole on her shoulder that had changed in color and size. Initially dismissing it as a harmless blemish, a routine check with a dermatologist led to an excision biopsy. Similarly, Michael, a retiree, underwent an excision biopsy after his GP noticed an irregularity on his skin during a check-up for an unrelated issue. Both their stories highlight the importance of vigilance and expert intervention in skin health.

An excision biopsy is a medical procedure where a dermatologist removes a piece of tissue or a skin lesion in its entirety. This is often performed under local anaesthesia and is essential in diagnosing various skin conditions, from benign moles to malignancies like melanoma.

Why is an Excision Biopsy Required in Dermatology?

Dermatology thrives on precision diagnosis. An excision biopsy provides a definitive answer when a skin lesion cannot be diagnosed by appearance alone. It aids in:

: Early detection and treatment of skin cancers hinge on tissue analysis.

: Conditions like psoriasis or lupus can be confirmed with tissue samples.

: Understanding the nature of a skin lesion guides dermatologists in crafting a targeted treatment plan.

The procedure is straightforward but requires meticulous execution:

: The area around the skin lesion is cleaned and marked.

: A local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area.

: The dermatologist uses a scalpel to remove the lesion, along with some surrounding tissue for analysis.

: The incision is sutured to promote healing.

Patients may feel pressure but no pain during the procedure. It typically takes 15-30 minutes, depending on the size and location of the lesion.

Post-procedure care is critical for healing and includes:

: Instructions on how to care for the site are provided to prevent infection and promote healing.

: Pathology results can take anywhere from several days to a week. This can be an anxious time for patients, but understanding that this step is crucial for their health is comforting.

: Depending on the results, further treatment may be recommended. If the lesion is benign, routine monitoring might be all that’s needed.

Excision biopsies are a testament to the precision and care embedded in dermatology. They’re not just procedures but pathways to peace of mind for patients. Whether it's for Sarah, Michael, or any individual facing uncertainties about their skin health, an excision biopsy is a step toward clarity and treatment. At our online skin clinic, mySkinDoc, we understand the intricacies of such procedures and provide comprehensive care before, during, and after an excision biopsy, ensuring you are in safe and skilled hands on your journey to skin health.

Understanding Excision Biopsies: A Comprehensive Guide for Healthy Skin

Skin Biopsy

Lichen Planus is a condition that may not be as widely recognized as other dermatological issues, yet it affects a considerable number of individuals, triggering not only physical discomfort but also emotional distress. This non-contagious, chronic skin condition is known for its itchy, bumpy rash, which can significantly impact one’s quality of life. As a condition that appears in various forms and locations, understanding Lichen Planus is crucial for effective management.

For many, the journey with Lichen Planus starts with confusion and misdiagnosis. Take Sarah, for instance, a 35-year-old teacher from Manchester, who noticed purplish, flat-topped bumps on her wrists. They were itchy and appeared without any clear reason. After several months of over-the-counter treatments and misdiagnosis, she was finally diagnosed with Lichen Planus by a dermatologist. Like Sarah, numerous patients recount the relief in having a name for their condition, which is the first step in their treatment journey.

Lichen Planus is believed to affect around 1-2% of the global population, displaying no racial predilection. However, it is most commonly diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 30 and 60. Although both men and women can develop Lichen Planus, it tends to be more prevalent in females.

The treatment for Lichen Planus is aimed at reducing symptoms, as there is currently no cure for the condition. Options include:

 - Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itchiness.

- Antihistamines to help control itching.

- Phototherapy, using ultraviolet light to improve skin lesions.

- Oral medications, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, in more severe cases.

 It's crucial for patients to have a personalized treatment plan crafted by a dermatologist, considering the severity and location of their symptoms.

Living with Lichen Planus can be challenging, but several resources in the UK provide support and information:

 - The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) - [

- Lichen Planus UK Support Group - Offers a community for those affected, sharing experiences and advice.

 Each of these resources provides valuable information for both newly diagnosed individuals and those who have been managing the condition for years.

 In conclusion, Lichen Planus is a complex condition that requires a nuanced approach to treatment and support. Through a combination of medical intervention and supportive resources, individuals living with Lichen Planus can manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist, like those at mySkinDoc, for diagnosis and personalized treatment options.

If you feel that you may have this condition or you want to get to the bottom of what is happening to your skin, have a consultation with mySkinDoc and we will help you with your skin. 

Understanding Lichen Planus: A Comprehensive Guide

Lichen Planus

Dr. Amit Goyal: The Visionary Behind mySkinDoc

Before we delve deep into the complexities of malignant melanoma, it's vital to spotlight the individual who has made this educational venture possible, Dr. Amit Goyal. An esteemed dermatology doctor with numerous accolades and years of expertise, Dr. Goyal recognised a distinct need in the contemporary digital landscape: to provide trustworthy, rapid, and accessible skin care advice. Born from this vision was mySkinDoc, an innovative platform marrying the expertise of clinical consultation with the convenience of online accessibility.

Dr. Goyal's commitment to patient education and wellness is manifested through resources like this detailed guide on melanoma. He believes in empowering everyone with the necessary knowledge and tools to make enlightened decisions about their skin health.

Should you, while navigating through this guide, have queries or apprehensions concerning your skin health, Dr. Goyal and his proficient team are merely a click away. Don't delay; prioritize your skin's health. 

Proceed with an online consultation via the 'Ask A Specialist' button

on the mySkinDoc platform. Ensuring your comfort and well-being remains our prime directive.

Malignant melanoma, often just called melanoma, is a form of skin cancer emerging from melanocytes, the cells behind melanin production - the pigment giving colour to our skin, hair, and eyes. Though melanoma comprises only a small fraction of skin cancer cases, it's notably responsible for most skin cancer-related deaths. This guide delves deeper, shedding light on melanoma's risk factors, symptoms, preventative measures, treatment avenues, and offering valuable UK-specific resources.

: Jane, a 35-year-old teacher from London, first noticed a suspicious-looking mole on her arm during a summer holiday. It was new and unlike the other moles she had. Having read about melanoma, she decided to consult her GP, who promptly referred her to a local dermatologist. The early intervention helped her address the issue promptly.

Catching melanoma early is pivotal. Be proactive in spotting skin changes and consult with professionals upon noticing:

Mitigate melanoma risk with UV protection and consistent skin health checks:

Therapeutic choices hinge on melanoma's stage and spread:

Malignant melanoma is formidable, but knowledge can be your best defence. Familiarising yourself with its risk factors, early signs, and preventive measures ensures a proactive stance against it. Emphasise routine dermatological evaluations, and should there be any skin-related apprehensions, seek medical guidance immediately. As exemplified by Jane, early intervention can make a monumental difference. Remember, prompt detection has the potential to be life-saving.

Make sure you are seen by your GP if you have a suspicious mole. Alternatively you may wish to have a consultation with 

Navigating Malignant Melanoma: A Comprehensive UK Guide for Patients

Malignant Melanoma

Dr Goyal is a practising NHS GP with a specialist interest in Dermatology with over 15 years experience.

As a GP with a specialist interest in skin conditions (dermatology), he is often asked by patients about skin changes that they have noticed. Some of these skin changes can be harmless, but others can be more serious and may be signs of skin cancer.

There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma. BCC and SCC are the most common types of skin cancer, and they are usually found on parts of the body that have been exposed to the sun. Melanoma is less common than BCC and SCC, but it is more aggressive.

If you have any concerns about skin cancer, please don't hesitate to ask our specialists at mySkinDoc. We would be more than happy to help!

There are a few symptoms you should ignore if your mole changes or if you develop a new blemish on your skin. We call these skin lesions.

With that being said, here are the five skin changes you shouldn’t ignore:

If you do develop one or more of these symptoms then you should go and see your GP or dermatologist if you can.

If you have any concerns about skin cancer, please don't hesitate to speak to your doctor. Early detection is key to successful treatment!

What happens if my doctor thinks I might have skin cancer?

Your GP will refer you to the dermatologist at the local NHS hospital. This is usually done on an urgent basis and you should normally be seen within 2 weeks.

Occasionally if your GP is experienced in Dermatology then they may treat milder skin cancers in the surgery.

At the dermatology clinic, they will assess your skin cancer and decide on the best treatment for you.

Depending on how advanced the skin cancer is this will dictate how aggressively you will be treated.

You may also be referred to a tertiary hospital in the NHS which is even more specialised with skin cancers and treatment.

Although it is worrying if you have a mole of skin lesion that does have the changes we mentioned, a large proportion of skin lesions and blemishes we see in the dermatology clinic are benign (non-cancerous).

The commonest lesion we see is something called a seborrhoeic wart. This is a skin lesion which usually appears on the face, chest or back and is not skin cancer.

If you have any concerns you can see your GP who will be able to refer you to the dermatology clinic if necessary. 

You can also ask our specialists at mySkinDoc and we can get a diagnosis over to you within 48 hours.

Here are some useful resources if you have been affected by skin cancer or would like more information:

This blog post has been written by our CEO and Founder of mySkinDoc, Dr Amit Goyal

5 Changes to Your Skin You Shouldn't Ignore: Could They Be Signs of Skin Cancer?

5 Signs of Skin Cancer

Many people don't realise that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer.

It's estimated that 1 in 3 Australians will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime. Skin cancers are caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight, which can damage DNA and lead to abnormal cell growths called tumors on the surface of your skin.

John was a builder who loved to go on holiday at least twice a year. He didn't use any sun protection or hats when he was working. John used to keep his shirt off during the summer months, but sadly John developed skin cancer on his back and it wasn't caught by anyone quickly enough. Luckily for him, though, it was caught by his dermatologist and it has been removed successfully.

John's dermatologist explained to him how sun exposure could have caused his skin cancer and suggested he use Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 50 Sun Cream when going out in the Sun. SPF 50 Sun Cream blocks out a very high percentage of ultraviolet radiation from sunlight, so it helps to protect your skin from sun damage. Now John uses Sun Protection Factor 40 Sun Cream, which blocks nearly 96% of UVB radiation from sunlight and he always has a hat on too. He is happier now that he knows that his family will be around for a long time as his grand kids are now teenagers!

Another one of our patients who has been affected by the Sun is James. James is in his seventies and he started having 'sun spots' on his face and arms. Sun spots are caused by sun damage to your skin cells, so it's important not to ignore these early signs of ageing. 

James went to see his dermatologist and she suggested Sun Protection Factor 30 Sun Cream. Sun Protection Factor 30 Sun Cream blocks 97% of UVB radiation from sunlight so it helps to protect your skin even more than Sun Protection Factor 15 Sun Cream. 

James' dermatologist also asked him about hat use and sunglasses, both of which are important in protecting his skin too.James is very happy with himself now that he's started using Sun Protection Factor 30 Sun Cream and he always covers up his skin when he goes out in the Sun

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer . Wear sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen with SPF30 if you want to protect your skin from the sun.

Decide on three vital tips to help you protect yourself from skin damage caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunlight that could lead to skin cancer.

If you have a concern about a patch of skin you're concerned about, why not try the mySkinDoc online dermatology consultation and make sure you're not missing a skin cancer. Access us via 