Introduction

Cutaneous disorders are among the most common conditions presented to primary care doctors. Many are easily identifiable and may be dealt with effectively without the need for cutaneous biopsy. Nevertheless, in many instances the diagnosis is not obvious on clinical grounds. The rash may display atypical features or may not respond to therapy as predicted.

In these cases, and when dealing with cutaneous tumours or worrying pigmented lesions, cutaneous biopsy with histological assessment becomes necessary.

The art of cutaneous biopsy is to derive the maximum amount of information from the minimum amount of tissue, causing least discomfort to the patient. This will be achieved if due regard is given to the advantages and shortcomings of the various techniques available for biopsying cutaneous tissue, and if the pathologist is supplied with a good clinical history.