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Subungual exostosis following toe nail removal--case report
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal Bolton Hospital, Minerva Road, Farnworth, Bolton, UK.
Summary
A young woman developed a rapidly growing subungual exostosis after toenail removal. This rare case suggests iatrogenic injury during the procedure may trigger abnormal bone growth, a previously unreported cause.
Area of Science:
- Podiatry
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Dermatology
Background:
- Toenail removal is a common minor surgical procedure.
- Subungual exostosis is a benign bony growth under the toenail.
- The etiology of subungual exostosis is often idiopathic or related to trauma.
Observation:
- A case report of a young lady who underwent toenail removal.
- The patient subsequently developed a rapidly growing subungual exostosis on the great toe.
- The exostosis appeared following the nail removal procedure.
Findings:
- The rapid bone growth leading to subungual exostosis was potentially triggered by iatrogenic injury.
- Injury to the nail bed and phalangeal periosteum during nail removal is the suspected cause.
- This represents a novel potential etiology for subungual exostosis.
Implications:
- Highlights a potential complication of toenail removal.
- Suggests careful surgical technique is crucial to avoid periosteal injury.
- May prompt further investigation into iatrogenic causes of subungual exostosis.
