Dermatopathology at the Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center Laboratory
Dermatology visits often result in a skin biopsy. A biopsy is a sampling of a growth or rash. The sample consists of a small piece of skin, usually 3-6 millimeters. A wealth of information can be gleaned from such a small piece of skin. What happens after the sample is taken to allow your doctor to learn so much?
The specimen is transported to the DSCS Laboratory, part of the full complement of services available at
Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center. Under the Directorship of Stephen J. Plumb D.O., the laboratory handles over 15,000 specimens per year. The laboratory is fully certified by the State of Kansas. Dr. Plumb trained at the University of Iowa and is board certified in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology as well as Dermatopathology.
The specimen is processed over a 12 to 24 hour period. Then, tiny sections are cut and placed on glass slides for evaluation under the microscope. Those tiny sections are a window into the entire process that was sampled. With that tiny section, rashes and growths can be diagnosed. That information is given to your dermatologist who will then proceed accordingly.
Dermatopathology is a subspecialty of both Dermatology and Pathology. The skin is an incredibly complex organ that warrants its own subspecialty training and board certification. If you have a sample of your skin taken, make sure that it’s processed by a laboratory that specializes in skin and that it is evaluated by a board certified Dermatopathologist.
Accurate and timely diagnosis of your skin disease is important. That is why the physicians at Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center utilize the most highly trained and skilled dermatopathology professionals available. The experts at DSCS Laboratory will ensure that the results of your biopsy provide your physician with the information they need to determine the treatment that is best for you.
