[Nail bed changes in the neonatal period]

In the years from 1973-1983, 36 children, ranging in ages from 14 days to 4 years, with ingrown toenails, which they had had since birth, were admitted for stationary treatment. For 26 of the children, the nails of both large toes were ingrown. In eight cases the smear from the nail wall revealed pathological germs of differing types. Conservative therapy was attempted in each case without success. The operative treatment consisted of completely removing the nail in 50%, an incomplete removal in 30%, and in all cases resection of the nail wall. None of the children showed a relapse. The treatment was completed within 14 days following the operation and conservative treatment. The cause is assumed to be a congenital hyperplasia of the nail bed.