Information on the skin biopsy

Importance of the clinical-histopathological correlation

Over-and-above all these ground-rules, what is critical for the ability to assess a skin biopsy is taking the trouble to ensure the dermatopathologist is in a position to do his/her job. Routine details can be contributing factors, such as the patient’s age, the site of skin changes and biopsy sites, as well as – particularly in the case of inflammatory dermatoses – the anamnesis and picture of clinical symptoms. There is also a role for critical analysis with the aid of the histopathological report, which examines possible alternative interpretations in the event of discrepancies with the clinical picture, which should be discussed with the histopathologist. Basic knowledge of dermatohistopathology is essential here. Conversely, the histopathologist should be in a position to weigh up differential clinical diagnoses, and if need be to elaborate appropriately on them. Only if the clinician has confidence in histopathology, and in turn the histopathologist in the clinic for skin diseases, can the diagnostic possibilities of a skin biopsy be completely exhausted.

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