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[Green nail syndrome or chloronychia]
M Maes1, B Richert, M de la Brassinne
1Service de Dermatologié, Université de Liège.
Revue Medicale De Liege
|June 21, 2002
Summary
Green nails, or chloronychia, is a nail infection often caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Treatment involves nail trimming, applying a sodium hypochlorite solution, and protecting hands from moisture.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Green nails (chloronychia) present as a triad: green nail discoloration, proximal chronic paronychia, and disto-lateral onycholysis.
- This condition is primarily caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with other bacterial or fungal agents also implicated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation and contributing factors of green nail syndrome.
- To outline effective treatment strategies for chloronychia.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation of patients with green nails.
- Review of factors contributing to Pseudomonas aeruginosa nail infections.
- Standard treatment protocols for onycholysis and paronychia.
Main Results:
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the predominant pathogen in green nail syndrome.
- Moist environments, microtraumas, nail-biting (onychotillomania), and conditions like psoriasis are predisposing factors.
- Successful treatment involves nail debridement, topical 2% sodium hypochlorite application, and moisture avoidance.
Conclusions:
- Green nails are a distinct clinical entity often linked to Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Identifying and mitigating predisposing factors is crucial for managing chloronychia.
- A combination of topical antiseptics and physical nail care provides effective treatment.