Nail abnormalities in subepidermal blistering diseases: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Nail Disorders

Background:

• Nail involvement is uncommon in subepidermal autoimmune blistering diseases (SEABD).
• Nail changes in SEABD can be transient or permanent.
• This study investigates nail manifestations and associated factors in SEABD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify common nail abnormalities in patients with SEABD.
• To explore associations between SEABD subtypes, treatments, and nail changes.
• To analyze factors influencing nail involvement in SEABD.

Main Methods:

• 56 SEABD patients were evaluated for nail changes over one year.
• Associations between SEABD subtypes, treatments, and nail abnormalities were analyzed.
• Patient age, gender, disease duration, mucosal involvement, and antibody levels were assessed.

Main Results:

• Ridging, onycholysis, and onychoschizia were the most frequent nail abnormalities.
• Onycholysis was less common in Epidermolysis Bullosa Acquisita (EBA); periungual bullae were less common in Mucous Membrane Pemphigoid (MMP).
• Rituximab, dapsone, and prednisolone showed efficacy in preventing specific nail conditions; foot digits were more prone to lesions due to trauma.

Conclusions:

• Underlying disease control is crucial for managing nail involvement in SEABD.
• Appropriate medical treatment can prevent or mitigate nail abnormalities.
• Avoiding trauma to the nails is recommended for SEABD patients.