Onychomadesis: literature review

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Nail Diseases
• Pathology

Background:

• Onychomadesis is defined as nail plate separation from the matrix, often leading to shedding.
• Previous literature reviews on all onychomadesis associations are lacking.
• Commonly reported associations include pemphigus vulgaris, hand-foot-mouth disease, chemotherapy, and antiepileptic drugs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize all known associations with onychomadesis.
• To postulate the pathogenesis of nail matrix arrest.
• To summarize clinical outcomes of onychomadesis.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of onychomadesis cases from January 1960 to March 2013.
• Literature search using PubMed and Ovid databases with terms 'onychomadesis' and 'proximal nail shedding'.
• Exclusion of articles solely on Beau's lines.

Main Results:

• Onychomadesis is associated with autoimmune diseases, major medical illnesses, neonatal conditions, medications, and infections.
• Pemphigus vulgaris and hand-foot-mouth disease are frequently reported associations.
• Chemotherapy and antiepileptic medications are also common culprits.

Conclusions:

• Onychomadesis has diverse associations including autoimmune conditions, infections, and iatrogenic causes.
• Understanding these associations is crucial for diagnosis and management.
• Further research into the pathogenesis of nail matrix arrest is warranted.