Three select subungual pathologies: subungual exostosis, subungual osteochondroma, and subungual hematoma

Special attention has been given to the differences between subungual exostosis and subungual osteochondroma. Once a diagnosis has been made and symptoms persist, complete excision of the lesion with curettage of the base is the treatment of choice for both conditions. Subungual hematoma is an exquisitely painful condition that usually results from trauma, but may also be caused by systemic pathology, medication and drug reactions, and aging. Prompt decompression will significantly reduce pain and further damage to the nail bed and matrix. Radiographs must be taken because of the high incidence of associated distal phalangeal fracture. Patients must be warned that onycholysis, transient and permanent nail deformity, and infection are possible complications, even with the best treatment.