Chapter 20: Diagnostic investigations
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Breast punch biopsy
A punch biopsy is a less invasive method in comparison to a core biopsy. It enables the nurse to take a specimen where the cutaneous (skin) layers are involved.
Indication
- Where the index lesion is involving cutaneous tissue.
- Locally advanced fungating lesions.
Contraindications
- Known sensitivity to local anaesthetic agents.
- Evidence of active infection may delay timing of biopsy unless the area is a fungating lesion which is chronically infected.
Procedure guideline 20.11
