exploring alternatives to scalpel and traditional punch skin biopsies

by Florian Lapierre, PhD, Microsampling Product Director on Oct 30, 2024 1:22:52 PM

In recent times, advancements in analytical instrumentations such as Hyphenated Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS, GC-MS, etc.), PCR technologies, and others have provided the opportunity for microsampling collection techniques to arise. The demand for less invasive methods of collecting biological samples has finally arrived for dermatology with the novel development of the Harpera™ Microbiopsy™ Punch.

Traditional skin biopsies, which often entail invasive and painful surgical procedures, are being reconsidered as many discover and explore the newer Microbiopsy, which is a smaller, less invasive punch alternative. Unlike conventional methods with their stitches and scarring, Harpera's spring-loaded microsampling technology offers a quick, precise and virtually painless skin sampling event, providing a significant relief from the discomfort patients usually experience.  

The Harpera Microbiopsy Punch presents a more straightforward skin sampling procedure that may reduce the risk of infection or complications and accelerate recovery time—while offering a gentler alternative to traditional skin sampling procedures. This signals to the community the arrival of a technological advancement that can improve the patient experience and research outcomes in ways that have not been possible before.

The table below summarizes the key advantages of skin Microbiopsy punch over the traditional biopsy punch method to collect a skin specimen.

Third-party Publications:

• Yamada, M., et al. (2020). "Microbiopsy-based minimally invasive skin sampling for molecular analysis is acceptable to Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex patients where conventional diagnostic biopsy was refused." Skin Res Technol.
  
  
• Preis, S., et al. (2022). "Munich atopy prediction study (MAPS): protocol for a prospective birth cohort addressing clinical and molecular risk factors for a topic dermatitis in early childhood." BMJ Open12 (9): e059256.
  
  
• Kirstein, O.D., et al. (2017). "Minimally invasive microbiopsies: a novel sampling method for identifying asymptomatic, potentially infectious carriers of Leishmania donovani." Int J Parasitol 47(10-11): 609-616.

See the complete publications list here. 

shifting toward minimally invasive skin biopsies 

Harpera's non-invasive technology can be the ideal sampling device to be used in conjunction with a wide range of dermatological applications, from diagnosing skin cancers to monitoring chronic skin conditions. Its ability to perform fast, easily repeatable sampling procedures without significant discomfort or damage to the skin makes it particularly valuable in studies requiring longitudinal monitoring.

Microbiopsy technology allows for continuous assessment with minimal impact on the patient's quality of life. Embracing this technology may positively impact the future of dermatological sample collection and rewrite the patient experience. It has the potential to offer a future where skin biopsies become quick, painless, and more accessible than ever.

1 Matsumoto, M., et al. (2018). “Estimating the cost of skin cancer detection by dermatology providers in a large health care system.” J Am Acad Dermatol 78(4): 701-709 e701.