Skin Biopsy for Neurologic Disorder Diganosis

At The Neurology Center at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland our neurologists provide expert diagnosis and treatment for a wide spectrum of neurological conditions, which can be difficult to diagnose. Tests, including skin biopsy, can help doctors better determine the root cause of symptoms.

What is a Skin Biopsy?

A skin biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure use to evaluate small sensory nerve fibers in the skin. Small sensory nerve fibers control how we experience sensations like a pinprick and cold and heat. Symptoms associated with small sensory nerve fibers include numbness, tingling and pain.

How can a Skin Biopsy be used for diagnosis?

A skin biopsy is used to evaluate small sensory nerve fibers in the skin that may be the source for numbness and tingling and pain.

How is a Skin Biopsy performed?

Your neurologist may perform the skin biopsy in the office. The skin is numbed with an anesthetic or numbing medication such as Lidocaine. A small piece of skin, 3 mm in diameter, is removed. The skin biopsy is typically removed from above the ankle, above the knee or the thigh. Stitches are not required and the healing process typically takes about seven days. The procedure takes about 15 to 20 minutes.