From the Research
A skin biopsy or pathology is typically not necessary for routine skin tag removal. Most skin tags are benign growths that can be identified visually by a healthcare provider without requiring laboratory analysis 1. However, if the skin tag has unusual characteristics such as irregular coloring, rapid growth, bleeding, or pain, your doctor might recommend sending the removed tissue for pathological examination to rule out other conditions. The decision ultimately depends on your medical history, the appearance of the skin tag, and your doctor's clinical judgment.
Common Removal Methods
Common removal methods include:
- Snipping with sterile scissors
- Freezing with liquid nitrogen
- Burning with electrocautery—all of which can be performed in a simple office procedure without the need for pathological analysis in most cases. If you have multiple skin tags or they frequently recur, your doctor might want to investigate underlying conditions like diabetes or hormonal changes that could be contributing factors 2.
Biopsy Techniques
According to a recent study, skin biopsies provide physicians with valuable information in the evaluation of many dermatologic diseases, and the choice of biopsy type depends on the suspected disease's pathology and lesion location 1. However, for routine skin tag removal, a biopsy is usually not required unless there are suspicious features.
Clinical Judgment
It's essential to note that the final decision to perform a biopsy or not should be based on the healthcare provider's clinical judgment, taking into account the patient's medical history, the appearance of the skin tag, and any other relevant factors 3. In most cases, skin tags can be safely removed without the need for a biopsy, but it's crucial to prioritize caution and consider a biopsy if there are any unusual characteristics or concerns.