[Excision and biopsy procedures].

Biopsies and excisions are every-day procedures of the dermatologist. Certain rules have to be followed to fulfil their purpose, mostly a reliable histological diagnosis, and to achieve cosmetically acceptable scars. Most important biopsy techniques are shave and punch biopsies, and fusiform scalpel excisions. In addition to skin and adnexal biopsies, the dermatologist may perform muscle, vessel, testis and minor salivary gland biopsies.