[A toddler with loose nails]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Dermatology
• Nail Disorders

Background:

• Nail abnormalities are common in pediatric patients.
• Onychomadesis, the shedding of nails, can be caused by various factors.
• Early diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of onychomadesis in an infant.
• To describe the clinical presentation of proximal nail peeling.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing this condition in toddlers.

Main Methods:

• Clinical observation of an 18-month-old male patient.
• Examination of fingernail abnormalities, specifically proximal peeling.
• Diagnostic assessment based on visual presentation.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with nine fingernails peeling from the proximal side.
• Normal nail growth was observed underneath the separated nail plates.
• The diagnosis of onychomadesis was established.

Conclusions:

• Onychomadesis can manifest in young children with characteristic proximal nail separation.
• Prompt identification of onychomadesis aids in distinguishing it from other nail conditions.
• This case underscores the need for awareness of pediatric nail disorders among general practitioners.