Nail Psoriasis: An Over View

Abstract

The nail unit is a dynamic complex which forms an important part of the integument. This complex consists of the nail matrix (NM), nail bed (NB), hyponychium, nail fold (NF) and the nail plate (NP). Psoriasis is a cutaneous disorder that causes increased cell proliferation and affects skin and nails. Nail psoriasis is the most common nail disorder that is associated with pitting, leukonychia, ‘oil drop’ (salmon patches), nail bed hyperkeratosis and cutaneous psoriasis. Topical therapy of nail psoriasis consists of high-potency corticosteroids applied around and under the nail with or without occlusion and other treatments such as PUVA (psoralen plus ultraviolet light of the A wavelength), methotrexate, cyclosporin, or etretinate are also available. The present review gives information about the different psoriatic conditions of the nail along with the treatment procedure.