Removal of a small tissue core using a hollow punch is called what procedure?

• A. Biopsy
• B. Edema
• C. Punch biopsy
• D. Tissue pathology

Answer: (C)

A punch biopsy uses a circular, hollow blade pressed into the skin to remove a small cylindrical core of tissue. The blade captures a full-thickness piece (epidermis through dermis, and sometimes into subcutaneous fat, depending on depth), which is then sent for histopathologic examination. This is the specific term for removing tissue with a hollow punch, distinguishing it from a general biopsy, edema (swelling), or tissue pathology (the study of tissues). Other biopsy methods remove tissue in different shapes or amounts, such as shaving or excisional techniques.