Nail biopsy vignettes

Several important aspects of nail biopsies are reviewed: techniques for reliably demonstrating dermatophytes within the nail unit; the use and advantages of double action nail clippers; biopsy by the double punch method; risk/benefit considerations in preoperative patient discussions; malignancies masquerading as nail dystrophies; selected aspects of anesthesia and hemostasis; and the importance of communication between the dermatologist and pathologist in assuring accurate nail biopsy interpretation.