Skin

Nail Disorders

Nail disorders include a wide range of conditions affecting the fingernails and toenails, including infections (onychomycosis), inflammation (paronychia), structural changes (pitting, thickening), and nail changes associated with systemic diseases such as psoriasis or lupus. Some nail changes can be indicators of systemic health conditions.

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Symptoms

6

Causes

4

Treatments

4

Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Nail Disorders. This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Nail discoloration (yellow, white, brown)
  • Thick or brittle nails
  • Nail pitting
  • Separation of nail from nail bed (onycholysis)
  • Ridges
  • Nail fold inflammation (paronychia)
  • Clubbing (associated with lung disease)

Causes

  • Fungal infection (onychomycosis)
  • Bacterial infection
  • Psoriasis
  • Trauma
  • Systemic disease
  • Medications

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination
  • KOH preparation for fungal infection
  • Nail clipping culture
  • Nail biopsy

Treatment

  • Antifungal medications (topical or oral)
  • Antibiotics for bacterial infection
  • Treating underlying disease
  • Surgical procedures for severe cases

Risk Factors

  • Older age
  • Damp work environment
  • Immunosuppression
  • Diabetes
  • Psoriasis
  • Poor circulation

Prevention

  • Keep nails clean and trimmed
  • Wear moisture-wicking socks
  • Use antifungal powder in shoes
  • Avoid barefoot walking in public areas

Prevalence

Nail fungus affects approximately 10% of the general population; up to 50% of people over 70.

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