[Diagnostic utility of nail biopsy: a study of 15 cases].

INTRODUCTION Nail biopsy is thought to be a useful technique for the diagnosis of diseases affecting the nail apparatus and may help avoid delays in the diagnosis of important mucocutaneous diseases. Furthermore, it has therapeutic value in its own right. It is not a difficult technique to perform but it requires an in-depth knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the nail unit, as well as surgical experience and patient collaboration. In order to assess the diagnostic utility of this technique, we reviewed the nail biopsies performed in our department between June 2005 and May 2006. PATIENTS AND METHODS We identified 15 patients in whom nail biopsy had been performed. The clinical findings, type of biopsy performed, and histopathologic diagnosis were assessed. RESULTS Nail biopsy allowed diagnosis of a variety of skin disease in 13 out of 15 patients (psoriasis in 5, onychomycosis in 4, melanonychia in 2, melanoma in 1, and subungual hematoma in 1). None of the patients presented sequelae as a result of the intervention after several months of follow-up. CONCLUSION Nail biopsy is a useful tool in cases in which the patient history, clinical presentation, and additional tests have not led to a definitive diagnosis. In our experience, it can be performed safely and with minimal scarring.