Recurrent Paronychia as a Presenting Manifestation of Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Case Report

Nail involvement in pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an unusual clinical finding. The most common clinical manifestations include chronic paronychia and onychomadesis. We report an adult female patient with PV who initially presented with chronic paronychia of multiple fingernails and toenails before the onset of vesiculobullous eruptions. Later on, after complete resolution, there was recurrence of pemphigus presenting as hemorrhagic paronychia of the left index finger. Systemic treatment with corticosteroids and azathioprine led to complete resolution of mucocutaneous lesions as well as nail manifestations. Thus, chronic treatment-resistant paronychia may be an early and important sign of generalized pemphigus in certain patients.