Nail biopsy: indications and methods.

Nail biopsy is a safe and useful technique for diagnosis and management of many nail conditions. A basic understanding of nail anatomy and biology is a prerequisite for a successful nail biopsy. The patient must be adequately prepared and there needs to be excellent anesthesia and hemostasis. The type of nail biopsy depends largely on the location of the pathology in the nail unit. The techniques of nail biopsy by location in the nail unit and by lesion type are discussed.