Onychodystrophy

Onychodystrophy refers to any pathological disorder of the nails. There are several different kinds of onychodystrophy, including Onycholysis, Onychoschizia and Onychomadesis. The most common cause of onychodystrophy is a fungal infection. Other causes can include skin conditions such as psoriasis, certain medications, and systemic diseases such as hypothyroidism or malnutrition.

Causes

Onychodystrophy can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Fungal infections: This is the most common cause of onychodystrophy. Fungi that can cause onychodystrophy include dermatophytes, yeasts, and nondermatophyte molds.
• Psoriasis: This skin condition can cause pitting, ridging, and discoloration of the nails.
• Medications: Certain drugs, such as chemotherapy drugs, can cause onychodystrophy.
• Systemic diseases: Conditions such as hypothyroidism, malnutrition, and peripheral vascular disease can cause onychodystrophy.

Symptoms

Symptoms of onychodystrophy can vary depending on the cause, but may include:

• Changes in the color of the nails
• Changes in the shape or thickness of the nails
• Separation of the nail from the nail bed (Onycholysis)
• Splitting or breaking of the nails (Onychoschizia)
• Shedding or loss of the nails (Onychomadesis)

Treatment

Treatment for onychodystrophy depends on the cause. For fungal infections, antifungal medications may be prescribed. For onychodystrophy caused by skin conditions or systemic diseases, treatment of the underlying condition is usually necessary.

See also

• Nail disease
• Nail anatomy

Onychodystrophy Resources
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