Nail diseases

Nail Diseases

Nail diseases are a broad category of conditions that affect the nail (pronounced /neɪl/), a horn-like envelope covering the tips of the fingers and toes in humans. The term "nail" is derived from the Old English nǣġl, akin to the Old High German nagal, and the Old Norse nǫgl, all meaning "nail".

Types of Nail Diseases

There are several types of nail diseases, including:

• Onychomycosis (pronounced /ˌɒnɪkoʊmaɪˈkoʊsɪs/), also known as tinea unguium, is a fungal infection of the nail. This condition is often characterized by a white or yellow discoloration of the nail, thickening, and crumbling at the edge.

• Paronychia (pronounced /ˌpærəˈnaɪkiə/) is a skin infection that occurs around the nails. It is often caused by injury to the area, such as from biting off or picking a hangnail.

• Nail psoriasis (pronounced /neɪl səˈraɪəsɪs/) is a manifestation of psoriasis that affects the nails. It can cause a variety of changes in the appearance of finger and toe nails, including pitting (small depressions in the nail surface), thickening of the nails, and discoloration.

• Ingrown nail (pronounced /ˈɪnˌɡroʊn ˈneɪl/), also known as onychocryptosis, is a common form of nail disease. It occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the skin of the toe or finger, causing pain, redness, and swelling.

Treatment

Treatment for nail diseases varies depending on the specific condition and its severity. Options may include topical treatments, oral medications, and in some cases, surgery. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a dermatologist, for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

See Also

• Nail anatomy
• Nail disorder
• Nail fungus
• Nail infection

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