Soft Tissue Biopsy

Soft-Tissue Biopsy: What It Is and Why It’s Done

A soft-tissue biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample—such as skin, fat, muscle, or tendon—for microscopic evaluation. This quick and minimally invasive procedure helps foot and ankle specialists diagnose a wide range of conditions and develop the most effective treatment plan.

What Can a Soft-Tissue Biopsy Detect?

• Freckles or pigmented spots (such as moles)
• Fungal and bacterial skin infections
• Chronic rashes like eczema or dermatitis
• Systemic disease-related lesions (e.g., from diabetes)
• Growths such as lipomas, ganglion cysts, or fibromas
• Nail disorders including fungal infections and psoriasis
• Wart-like skin growths (benign keratoses)
• Pre-cancerous changes (actinic or seborrheic keratoses)

What to Expect During the Procedure

The biopsy typically takes only a few minutes and is performed in-office. Depending on the area and condition, your provider may use a shave, punch, aspiration, incisional, or excisional technique. Most patients receive results within about two weeks.