[Nail disorders in daily practice].

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Infectious Diseases

Context:

• Nail unit anatomy is fundamental to understanding the etiology of nail disorders.
• Clinicians require familiarity with common nail conditions for accurate diagnosis and management.
• Recognizing red-flag nail abnormalities is critical for patient care.

Purpose:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of common nail unit neoplasms, color and shape abnormalities, infections, and inflammatory conditions.
• To emphasize the importance of nail unit anatomy in diagnosing and treating nail disorders.
• To highlight how nail changes can signify underlying systemic diseases.

Summary:

• The article details various nail neoplasms, including squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and benign growths like mucous cysts and glomus tumors.
• It covers common nail discolorations (red, white, brown-black) and shape abnormalities, which may signal systemic illness.
• Infections such as onychomycosis and paronychia, and inflammatory conditions like psoriasis and lichen planus of the nail unit are discussed.

Impact:

• Enhances clinicians' ability to diagnose and manage a wide spectrum of nail disorders.
• Improves recognition of systemic diseases manifesting as nail abnormalities.
• Provides a foundational reference for understanding and addressing neoplasms, infections, and inflammatory conditions affecting the nail unit.