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How do you approach nail surgery to diagnose NUBs (neoplasms of uncertain behavior)?

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How do you approach nail surgery to diagnose NUBs (neoplasms of uncertain behavior)?

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3 Answers
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Dermatology · Central Dermatology Center
Answered on · Updated on

I tend to opt for punch biopsy to diagnose nail tumors. A larger punch (i.e. 4-6mm) can be used to remove the nail plate. Then, a slightly smaller punch (i.e. 3-5mm) can be used to biopsy the tumor. If there is no concern for involvement or relevant pathology of the nail plate, it can be secured bac...

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Dermatology · NYU Grossman School of Medicine
Answered on

So many nail neoplasms originate at the matrix that I often perform a nail matrix biopsy without avulsing the nail to obtain a diagnosis.

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Dermatology · Johns Hopkins Timeshare Practice
Answered on

A punch is a good way to make the diagnosis of possible tumors. Additional procedures may be necessary depending on the biopsy results.

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