Median nail dystrophy
Medical condition
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Median nail dystrophy, also known as dystrophia unguis mediana canaliformis, median canaliform dystrophy of Heller,[1]: 657 and solenonychia consists of longitudinal splitting or canal formation in the midline of the nail, a split which often resembles a fir tree, occurring at the cuticle and proceeding outward as the nail grows.[2]: 788
| Median nail dystrophy | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Dystrophia unguis mediana canaliformis, median canaliform dystrophy of Heller, and solenonychia. |
| Specialty | Dermatology |
Thumbs, which are the most commonly involved, usually show an enlarged lunula resulting probably from repeated pressure applied on the base of the nail.[1]: 657
Signs and symptoms
Median nail dystrophy presents as splitting that resembles an upside-down fir tree or Christmas tree because to tiny fissures or cracks that break toward the nail edge or extend laterally from the center canal.[3] Usually symmetrical, the ailment primarily affects the thumbs, though it can also affect other fingers or toes.[4] There may be lunula enlargement, redness, and thickening of the proximal nail fold.[5]
Causes
Diagnosis
Clinical findings are frequently the only basis for diagnosis.[8] Parakeratosis, or the buildup of melanin inside and between the keratinocytes in the nail bed, is typically seen in histopathology.[3]
Treatment
For median nail dystrophy, treatment is frequently not required.[8] Normalcy usually returns to affected nails on its own, either when medication is stopped or after a traumatic event.[9][7] Triamcinolone acetonide injected directly into the proximal nail fold or topical ointments have been effectively used in the treatment of median nail dystrophy, though this is not usually advised.[6][10]