Onychogryphosis
Onychogryphosis Causes
Most cases of onychogryphosis are caused by trauma and/or permanent pressure on the toe. Additionally, structural anomalies such as an abnormal foot position may play a role. In addition, onychogryphosis may be attributed to underlying conditions, such as: ichthyosis hystrix, psoriasis, and other epidermal dysplasias.
Onychogryphosis Definition
Onychogryphosis is a nail deformation characterized by the thickening of a toenail at the point where the nail curves, giving it a somewhat claw-like appearance. Onychogryphosis typically affects the big toe nail.
Onychogryphosis Diagnosis
The sight of the abnormally thickened, curved, or claw-like nail is usually enough to make a diagnosis of onychogryphosis.
Onychogryphosis Symptoms and Signs
The primary symptom of onychogryphosis is the nail of a toe (often the big toe) becoming abnormally thicker and distorted. In general, the symptoms of onychogryphosis can be summed up as an increase in nail thickness and an increase in nail curve. Onychogryphosis is most commonly seen in elderly patients.
Onychogryphosis Treatment
The goal of onychogryphosis treatment is to reduce the thickness of the nail. This is done either by cutting and filling the affected nail or by surgically removing the nail. The nail germinal matrix needs to be destroyed to prevent the damaged nails from regenerating and continuing to produce a tick new toenail. If the nail bed is not ablated, small spikes will grow, popping out across the surface of the old nail area. Frequent nail cutting and/or trimming is an integral part of treatment.