Nail Diseases

Your toenails and fingernails protect the tissues of your toes and fingers. They are made up of layers of a hardened protein called keratin, which is also in your hair and skin. Your nails' health can be a clue to your overall health. Healthy nails are usually smooth and consistent in color. Specific types of nail discoloration and changes in growth rate can signal various lung, heart, kidney and liver diseases, as well as diabetes and anemia. White spots and vertical ridges are harmless.

Nail problems that sometimes require treatment include bacterial and fungal infections, ingrown nails, tumors and warts. Keeping nails clean, dry and trimmed can help you avoid some problems. Do not remove the cuticle, which can cause infection.

Nail Disease on Wikipedia

'''Nail diseases''' are in a separate category from diseases of the skin. Although nails are a skin appendage, they have their own signs and symptoms which may relate to other medical conditions. Nail conditions that show signs of infection or inflammation require medical assistance and cannot be treated at a beauty parlor. Deformity or disease of the nails may be referred to as '''onychosis'''. * ''Onychia'' is an inflammation of the matrix (surrounding tissue) of the nail with formation of pus and shedding of the nail. Onychia results from the introduction of microscopic pathogens through small wounds.
*''Ingrown nail'', commonly known as "ingrown nails" (''unguis incarnatus''), can affect either the fingers or the toes. In this condition, the nail cuts into one or both sides of the nail bed, resulting in inflammation and possibly infection. The relative rarity of this condition in the fingers suggests that pressure from the ground or shoe against the toe is a prime factor. The movements involved in walking or other physical disturbances can contribute to the problem. Mild onychocryptosis, particularly in the absence of infection, can be treated by trimming and rounding the nail. More advanced cases, which usually include infection, are treated by surgically excising the ingrowing portion of the nail down to its bony origin and cauterizing the matrix, or 'root', to prevent recurrence. This surgery is called matricectomy. The best results are achieved by cauterizing the matrix with phenol. Another method, which is much less effective, is excision of the matrix, sometimes called a 'cold steel procedure'. *''Onychodystrophy'' is a deformation of the nails that can result from cancer chemotherapy which includes bleomycin, hydroxyurea, or 5-fluorouracil. ...   [ Read More ]

External Resources

Philippe Abimelec M.D - Specialist in nail disease. Details of his practice and patient information leaflets. Based in Paris, France.

Northeast Dermatology Associates, PA - A group of board certified dermatologists and one dermatopathologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disease of the skin, hair and nails. Locations in Massachusetts, Maine and New Hampshire.

Chicago Skin Clinic - Dr. Del Campo is a dermatologist treating diseases of skin, hair, and nails.

Dermatology Associates of Kentucky - This site describes dermatologic conditions. Medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments for all diseases involving the skin, hair and nails are given. The latest in laser surgery is featured.

Department of Dermatology - Information for patients and medical professionals on skin, hair, nail and mucous membrane diseases. Description of clinical services and treatments, medical staff and laboratory services provided at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.

Philippe Abimelec M.D - Dermatologist specialising in hair and nail disease as well as cosmetic surgery.

Division of Dermatology - Staffed by board certified dermatologists who specialize in treating skin cancer and other diseases of the skin, hair and nails. Our faculty includes experts in Mohs micrographic surgery, pediatric dermatology, photochemotherapy, and laser treatment for vascular birthmarks, tattoos, and traumatic scarring.

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