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Nail involvement in pemphigus vulgaris
N Schlesinger1, M Katz, A Ingber
1Rheumatology Service, UMDNJ/New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
The British Journal of Dermatology
|May 10, 2002
Summary
Nail changes in pemphigus vulgaris (PV) are more common than previously believed, affecting nearly half of patients. These nail alterations, distinct from onychomycosis, primarily impact fingernails.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Autoimmune Diseases
- Nail Disorders
Background:
- Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) involvement of the nail unit is traditionally considered infrequent.
- This study investigates the actual prevalence of nail changes in PV patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To ascertain the frequency of nail alterations in individuals diagnosed with pemphigus vulgaris.
- To differentiate nail changes caused by PV from those due to onychomycosis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of nail changes in 64 PV patients.
- Histological and immunofluorescence examination of nail bed and matrix biopsies.
- Microscopic (KOH) testing and fungal cultures were conducted.
Main Results:
- Nail changes were observed in 30 out of 64 (47%) PV patients.
- Sixteen patients had onychomycosis, while 14 exhibited nail changes attributed to PV.
- PV-related nail changes, including onychomadesis, discoloration, and deformity, were exclusively found in fingernails.
Conclusions:
- Nail involvement in pemphigus vulgaris is significantly more common than previously assumed.
- The findings highlight the importance of examining nails in PV patients for accurate diagnosis and management.