Treatment of nail diseases in the emergency department

Although Americans seek care for their nail diseases on an outpatient basis, they also seek nail care in the setting of the emergency department (ED).

This study aims to characterize the treatment of nail diseases at ED visits in the United States from 2009-2018.

Data from 2009-2018 was collected from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey for EDs.

There was an estimated 1.54 (95% CI [1.35, 1.74]) million nail visits to the ED from 2009-2018. Whites accounted for the most visits (57%), followed by African Americans (21%). 25-44-year-olds was the age group with the most visits. The South was the region with the most visits (33%). The most common diagnosis was paronychia (42%). Treatments for paronychia included oral antibiotics, incision and drainage, or both.

The accuracy of reporting the correct diagnosis remains the biggest limitation.

Nail disease visits accounted for over a million visits to the ED from 2009-2018. All ages and sexes were represented in these visits. Paronychia made up the largest portion of visits and was treated with oral antibiotics, incision and drainage, or both.