30 Questions
What is the recommended method for examining a skin biopsy sample?
Using a microscope and knowing which magnification to use
Which of the following tests can be requested in addition to routine staining for a skin biopsy sample?
Immunohistochemistry
Under what circumstances is general anesthesia usually required for a skin biopsy?
For biopsies of feet, pinnae, lips, and noses
What is the purpose of histopathology in skin biopsies?
To assess tissue structure
What is the recommended approach for taking a skin biopsy in calm animals?
Using sedation and local anesthesia
Which type of staining is routinely used for skin biopsies?
Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E)
What is the purpose of tissue culture in skin biopsies?
To culture and identify bacteria/fungi below skin surface
Which type of biopsy is quick and convenient, and should be used routinely with 6mm or 8mm biopsy punches?
Punch biopsy
When preparing the sample site for biopsy, what should be done with the crusts and skin surface?
Include them in the sample
What should be done if infiltrating local anesthetic for a biopsy?
Check efficacy of analgesia by pricking with a needle
What type of biopsy is recommended for excision of solitary nodules and biopsy of cutaneous masses?
Excisional biopsy
What should be done with the sample for histopathology after blotting blood from the underside?
Place it in sterile saline
What should be done if the sample examined is not representative of the lesion?
Ask the pathologist to cut further sections
Why do some biopsy results sometimes seem disappointing?
The sample was not representative of the lesion
What are biopsies essential for?
Diagnosing some skin diseases
What is the purpose of skin biopsies?
To establish a definitive diagnosis that cannot be reached by other, less invasive, testing methods and to rule out certain conditions.
What tests are carried out on skin biopsies?
Histopathology and tissue culture.
What is the role of histopathology in skin biopsies?
To assess tissue structure and provide additional information through special stains and immunohistochemistry.
When is general anesthesia usually required for a skin biopsy?
For biopsies of feet, pinnae, lips, and noses in all animals.
What is the recommended method for taking a skin biopsy in calm animals?
Sedation and local anesthesia.
What is the importance of examining and interpreting the samples efficiently?
To obtain accurate results and be aware of the limitations of each test.
Why is it necessary to take an adequate number of good quality diagnostic samples?
To ensure reliable and representative results.
What are the best sites for taking a skin biopsy for alopecia and ulcerated skin lesions?
Across the margin of the alopecic area, the area of maximum hair loss, normal haired skin for alopecia. Skin just adjacent to the ulcer, where the epidermis is still intact for ulcerated skin lesions.
What is the recommended method for preparing the sample site for biopsy?
Avoid disturbing the skin surface, clip hair but not too short, do not disturb crusts or skin surface, and do not prep or scrub the skin (unless excisional biopsy of nodules).
What type of biopsy is quick and convenient, and should be used routinely with 6mm or 8mm biopsy punches?
Punch biopsy.
What type of biopsy is recommended for excision of solitary nodules and biopsy of cutaneous masses?
Wedge/ellipse biopsy.
How should a punch biopsy be performed to avoid destroying and shearing the sample?
Hold the punch perpendicular to the skin surface and rotate in one direction, not back and forth.
How should a biopsy sample be handled for histopathology?
Handle gently by subcutaneous tissue only, never the dermis or epidermis, and use fine instruments or a needle.
What should be done with the biopsy sample for histopathology after blotting blood from the underside?
Place the sample promptly into 10% formalin, using a minimum of 10 times the volume of the tissue sample.
What are special considerations for bacterial and fungal tissue culture in skin biopsies?
Withdraw antibiotics and topical antimicrobials prior to sampling, submit punch biopsy sample in sterile saline, and avoid contamination with formalin or formalin fumes.
Test Prioritization and Sample Examination Quiz: Test your knowledge on how to prioritize tests for narrowing down differential diagnoses and learn how to take and examine diagnostic samples efficiently. Improve your ability to choose the most useful tests and interpret samples accurately.
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