Surgical Management of Retronychia

Retronychia is an uncommon type of ingrown nail characterized by ingrowing of the proximal nail plate into the proximal nail fold (PNF), inciting cycles of inflammation. The condition can be symptomatic due to swelling and inflammation of the PNF, but most often it is noticed because of a proximal thickening of the nail plate and the failure of nail to grow distally. It usually affects the great toenails of young females, commonly due to recurrent trauma and footwear-related issues. This condition is difficult to recognize in the initial stages and often requires surgical management when the nail plate becomes significantly impacted. We present a case of retronychia in a 24-year-old lady, who was treated surgically. The report serves to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic approach in such cases.