Minimally invasive microbiopsy for genetic profiling of melanocytic lesions: A case series

Abstract

To the Editor: More than 90% of skin biopsies performed on lesions clinically suspicious for cutaneous melanoma are benign nevi.1 Novel tools are needed to improve diagnostic accuracy and to reduce health care expenditures related to screening. Here, we piloted the use of a micropunch biopsy (MPB) device, which allows submillimeter suture-free and painless sampling from skin lesions.2 Unlike adhesive tape stripping, which captures anucleate, nonviable cells from the superficial layers of the skin, MPB captures viable cells from the deeper tissue where cancers originate.