The scalp biopsy: making it more efficient.
BACKGROUND
The scalp biopsy plays an important role in diagnosis and subsequent management of many scalp disorders. This simple diagnostic procedure can be time-consuming and frustrating for most dermatologists.


OBJECTIVE
To outline an efficient technique for performing a scalp biopsy.


METHODS
The technique of performing a scalp biopsy is reviewed and suggestions are made to make this time-consuming procedure more efficient.


RESULTS
Sufficient specimen for histopathologic evaluation in a short perid of time is obtained.


CONCLUSIONS
Attention to specific details in performing a scalp biopsy allows the physician to obtain a quick and histopathologically informative scalp biopsy.
Madani
S
S
Department of Dermatology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia.
Shapiro
J
J
D001706:Biopsy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D012535:Scalp / Q000473:pathology*; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000473:pathology*; D013536:Suture Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation