Category
Dermatology Procedural
Typical Use
Remove superficial skin lesions for diagnosis or therapy.
Description
A technique using a razor blade or disposable blade to shave off epidermal and superficial dermal lesions such as seborrheic keratoses or superficial basal cell carcinomas for diagnostic histology or therapeutic removal, typically performed under local anesthesia in outpatient settings. Shave biopsy provides rapid tissue sampling with minimal suturing but may not capture full thickness specimens needed for margin assessment in suspected invasive lesions; selection of technique depends on clinical suspicion and lesion characteristics. Hemostasis, specimen orientation, and patient counseling on wound care and potential need for further excision are integral to safe practice.