Q for dermatologists (about biopsy sites)

In My Humble Opinion
1

About three years ago I was referred to a dermatologist for a lot of actinic keratoses on my arms. She prescribed fluorouracil cream to make them go away, and most of them have (after a couple of follow-up appointments).

A few weeks ago, I was in her office again, and she was annoyed that one on my left forearm and another on my right elbow were still there (also that I reported zero discomfort from using the fluorouracil — ever, even though she had told me that it was gonna be agony). So she decided to biopsy both sites, a procedure that also didn’t hurt. I’m afraid I didn’t heed the wound care instructions about keeping them moist, and have let them just scab over.

What concerns me is that it’s been three weeks and they’re still not even close to healing. So I’d like to know, just how deep into the skin were these specimens taken? Is there some standard depth that you dermatologists tend to go with these?

TIA

2

IANA dermatologist.

I’ve had bunches of spots biopsied. As in multiple dozen spread over decades. And I too pretty well ignore the wound care. At 3 weeks I’d not be surprised to see the area still red & slightly tender if poked. OTOH, if it’s still weeping occasionally or scabby I’d be concerned enough to ask. At least for the rate I heal. You may heal faster or slower, but you ought to have some idea about what’s normal for you just from ordinary minor injuries.

As to depth, the three dermos I’ve used over the years have all taken very shallow biopsies, barely a mm, and usually less. I strongly doubt depth of excision is your issue. If you even have an issue.

Good luck however it plays out.