What are the symptoms of nail psoriasis. How is nail psoriasis diagnosed. What are the most effective treatments for psoriasis affecting the nails. Can nail psoriasis be prevented. How does nail psoriasis impact quality of life.

Understanding Nail Psoriasis: A Comprehensive Overview

Nail psoriasis is a manifestation of psoriasis that specifically affects the fingernails and toenails. It occurs in about 50% of people with psoriasis and can cause significant discomfort and cosmetic concerns. This condition can range from mild to severe, potentially leading to nail deformities and functional impairment.

Nail psoriasis can occur independently or in conjunction with other forms of psoriasis affecting the skin or joints. The symptoms may vary from person to person, but typically include changes in nail appearance, texture, and structure.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Nail Psoriasis

• Pitting or small depressions on the nail surface
• Discoloration (yellowing or browning of the nails)
• Thickening of the nail plate
• Separation of the nail from the nail bed (onycholysis)
• Crumbling or brittle nails
• Splinter hemorrhages (tiny blood spots under the nails)
• Salmon-colored patches on the nail bed

Is nail psoriasis painful. While not always painful, severe cases of nail psoriasis can cause discomfort, especially when the nail becomes thick or separates from the nail bed. This can make everyday activities like typing, buttoning clothes, or walking difficult.

Causes and Risk Factors of Nail Psoriasis

The exact cause of nail psoriasis, like other forms of psoriasis, is not fully understood. However, it is believed to be an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the nail matrix and nail bed.

Several factors may increase the risk of developing nail psoriasis:

1. Genetic predisposition: Having a family history of psoriasis increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
2. Stress: High levels of stress can trigger or exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, including nail involvement.
3. Injury to the nails: Physical trauma or repetitive stress on the nails may trigger psoriasis in susceptible individuals.
4. Infections: Certain infections, particularly fungal infections of the nails, may increase the risk of developing nail psoriasis.
5. Medications: Some medications, such as beta-blockers or lithium, may trigger or worsen psoriasis symptoms.

Do all people with psoriasis develop nail psoriasis. No, not everyone with psoriasis will develop nail psoriasis. However, it is estimated that up to 90% of people with psoriasis may experience nail changes at some point during their lifetime.

Diagnosing Nail Psoriasis: What to Expect

Diagnosing nail psoriasis typically involves a thorough examination of the nails and a review of the patient’s medical history. In most cases, a dermatologist can diagnose nail psoriasis based on the characteristic appearance of the nails and the presence of other psoriatic symptoms.

Diagnostic Procedures for Nail Psoriasis

• Visual examination: The dermatologist will carefully inspect the nails for signs of psoriasis.
• Nail biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of nail tissue may be taken for microscopic examination.
• Dermoscopy: This non-invasive technique uses a special magnifying device to examine the nails in detail.
• Fungal culture: To rule out fungal infections, which can mimic nail psoriasis.

Are blood tests necessary for diagnosing nail psoriasis. Blood tests are not typically required for diagnosing nail psoriasis. However, they may be ordered to rule out other conditions or to assess overall health before starting certain treatments.

Treatment Options for Nail Psoriasis: From Topical to Systemic Approaches

Treatment for nail psoriasis aims to reduce inflammation, alleviate symptoms, and improve the appearance of affected nails. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition and its impact on the patient’s quality of life.

Topical Treatments for Nail Psoriasis

• Corticosteroids: Applied directly to the nail or injected into the nail bed to reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin D analogues: Calcipotriol or calcitriol can help slow down nail cell growth.
• Retinoids: Tazarotene gel can help normalize nail growth and reduce thickening.
• Calcineurin inhibitors: Tacrolimus or pimecrolimus may be effective, especially for nail fold psoriasis.

How long does it take to see improvements with topical treatments. Topical treatments for nail psoriasis typically require patience, as it can take several months to see significant improvements. Consistent application for 6-12 months may be necessary to achieve optimal results.

Systemic Treatments for Severe Nail Psoriasis

For more severe cases or when topical treatments prove ineffective, systemic treatments may be recommended:

• Oral medications: Methotrexate, cyclosporine, or apremilast can help control inflammation throughout the body.
• Biologic therapies: Injectable medications like adalimumab, etanercept, or ustekinumab target specific components of the immune system.
• Phototherapy: Controlled exposure to ultraviolet light can help reduce inflammation and slow nail growth.

Are systemic treatments safe for long-term use. While systemic treatments can be highly effective, they may have potential side effects and require careful monitoring by a healthcare provider. The long-term safety profile varies depending on the specific medication and individual patient factors.

Lifestyle Modifications and Home Remedies for Managing Nail Psoriasis

In addition to medical treatments, several lifestyle changes and home remedies can help manage nail psoriasis and promote overall nail health:

1. Gentle nail care: Keep nails short and clean, avoiding aggressive manicures or pedicures.
2. Moisturize regularly: Apply moisturizer to nails and cuticles to prevent dryness and cracking.
3. Protect your nails: Wear gloves when doing household chores or working with chemicals.
4. Avoid nail polish and artificial nails: These can further damage psoriatic nails and interfere with treatment.
5. Manage stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga.
6. Maintain a healthy diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods.
7. Quit smoking: Smoking can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms, including nail involvement.

Can dietary changes improve nail psoriasis. While there is no specific diet proven to cure nail psoriasis, some patients report improvements with an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoiding potential trigger foods like dairy or gluten may also be beneficial for some individuals.

The Psychological Impact of Nail Psoriasis: Coping Strategies and Support

Nail psoriasis can have a significant psychological impact on those affected, often leading to decreased self-esteem, social anxiety, and reduced quality of life. The visible nature of nail changes can cause embarrassment and affect personal and professional relationships.

Strategies for Coping with Nail Psoriasis

• Educate yourself and others about the condition
• Join support groups or online communities for people with psoriasis
• Consider counseling or therapy to address emotional concerns
• Focus on self-care and stress management techniques
• Communicate openly with friends, family, and colleagues about your condition

How can healthcare providers address the psychological aspects of nail psoriasis. Healthcare providers should take a holistic approach to treating nail psoriasis, addressing both physical symptoms and psychological well-being. This may include referrals to mental health professionals, providing resources for support groups, and offering guidance on coping strategies.

Preventing Nail Psoriasis Flare-Ups: Tips for Long-Term Management

While it may not be possible to completely prevent nail psoriasis, several strategies can help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups:

1. Adhere to prescribed treatments: Consistent use of medications as directed by your healthcare provider is crucial.
2. Identify and avoid triggers: Keep a journal to track potential triggers like stress, certain foods, or environmental factors.
3. Maintain good nail hygiene: Regular gentle cleaning and moisturizing can help prevent infections and reduce irritation.
4. Protect your nails: Avoid activities that may damage your nails or expose them to harsh chemicals.
5. Manage overall health: Control other health conditions, maintain a healthy weight, and exercise regularly.
6. Regular check-ups: Schedule regular appointments with your dermatologist to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.

Can nail psoriasis recur after successful treatment. Yes, nail psoriasis can recur even after successful treatment. It is a chronic condition that may require ongoing management. However, with proper care and adherence to treatment plans, many people can achieve long periods of remission or significant improvement in their symptoms.

Emerging Treatments and Research in Nail Psoriasis Management

The field of nail psoriasis treatment is continually evolving, with ongoing research into new therapies and approaches. Some promising areas of investigation include:

• Novel biologic therapies targeting specific inflammatory pathways
• Nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems for improved topical treatments
• Gene therapy approaches to modulate the immune response in psoriasis
• Combination therapies for enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects
• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic and biomarker profiles

What is the future outlook for nail psoriasis treatment. The future of nail psoriasis treatment looks promising, with ongoing research focusing on more targeted and effective therapies. As our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of psoriasis improves, we can expect to see more personalized treatment options and potentially even preventive strategies for those at high risk of developing the condition.

In conclusion, nail psoriasis is a challenging condition that requires a comprehensive approach to management. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and available treatments, individuals with nail psoriasis can work closely with their healthcare providers to develop an effective treatment plan. With proper care, support, and ongoing research, many people with nail psoriasis can achieve significant improvements in their nail health and overall quality of life.

What is nail psoriasis, and how can I treat it?

Diseases & conditions

• 
  
  Coronavirus Resource Center
  
• 
  
  Acne
  
• 
  
  Eczema
  
• 
  
  Hair loss
  
• 
  
  Psoriasis
  
• 
  
  Rosacea
  
• 
  
  Skin cancer
  
• 
  
  A to Z diseases
  
• 
  
  A to Z videos
  

• DIY acne treatment
• How dermatologists treat
• Skin care: Acne-prone skin
• Causes
• Is it really acne?

• Types & treatments
• Childhood eczema
• Adult eczema
• Insider secrets

• Types of hair loss
• Treatment for hair loss
• Causes of hair loss
• Hair care matters
• Insider secrets

• What is psoriasis
• Diagnosis & treatment
• Skin, hair & nail care
• Triggers
• Insider secrets

• What is rosacea
• Treatment
• Skin care & triggers
• Insider secrets

• Types and treatment
• Find skin cancer
• Prevent skin cancer
• Raise awareness
• Español

Featured

Reduce summertime rosacea flare-ups

The sun, heat, and humidity can all trigger rosacea and lead to flare-ups. Find out how you can enjoy summer while reducing flare-ups.

JAK inhibitors: A newer type of medication

JAK inhibitors are helping patients with alopecia areata, eczema/atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo. Here’s what you need to know.

Everyday care

• 
  
  Skin care basics
  
• 
  
  Skin care secrets
  
• 
  
  Injured skin
  
• 
  
  Itchy skin
  
• 
  
  Sun protection
  
• 
  
  Hair & scalp care
  
• 
  
  Nail care secrets
  

• Basic skin care
• Dry, oily skin
• Hair removal
• Tattoos and piercings

• Anti-aging skin care
• For your face
• For your skin routine
• Preventing skin problems

• Bites & stings
• Burns, cuts, & other wounds

• Itch relief
• Poison ivy, oak & sumac
• Rashes

• Shade, clothing, and sunscreen
• Sun damage and your skin
• Aprenda a proteger su piel del sol

• Your hair
• Your scalp

• Nail care basics
• Manicures & pedicures

Featured

Practice Safe Sun

Everyone’s at risk for skin cancer. These dermatologists’ tips tell you how to protect your skin.

Relieve uncontrollably itchy skin

Find out what may be causing the itch and what can bring relief.

Darker Skin Tones

• 
  
  Skin care secrets
  
• 
  
  Hair care
  
• 
  
  Hair loss
  
• 
  
  Diseases & Conditions
  

• Acne
• Dark spots
• Dry skin
• Light spots
• Razor bumps

• Caring for Black hair
• Scalp psoriasis
• Weaves & extensions

• Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia
• Frontal fibrosing alopecia
• Hairstyles that pull can cause hair loss

• Acanthosis nigricans
• Acne keloidalis nuchae
• Hidradenitis suppurativa
• Keloid scars
• Lupus and your skin
• Sarcoidosis and your skin
• Skin cancer
• Vitiligo
• More diseases & conditions

Featured

Fade dark spots

Find out why dark spots appear and what can fade them.

Untreatable razor bumps or acne?

If you have what feels like razor bumps or acne on the back of your neck or scalp, you may have acne keloidalis nuchae. Find out what can help.

Cosmetic treatments

• 
  
  Your safety
  
• 
  
  Age spots & dark marks
  
• 
  
  Cellulite & fat removal
  
• 
  
  Hair removal
  
• 
  
  Scars & stretch marks
  
• 
  
  Wrinkles
  
• 
  
  Younger-looking skin
  

Featured

Laser hair removal

You can expect permanent results in all but one area. Do you know which one?

Scar treatment

If you want to diminish a noticeable scar, know these 10 things before having laser treatment.

Botox

It can smooth out deep wrinkles and lines, but the results aren’t permanent. Here’s how long botox tends to last.

Public health programs

• 
  
  Skin cancer awareness
  
• 
  
  Free skin cancer screenings
  
• 
  
  Kids’ camp
  
• 
  
  Good Skin Knowledge
  
• 
  
  Shade Structure grants
  
• 
  
  Skin Cancer, Take a Hike!™
  
• 
  
  Awareness campaigns
  
• 
  
  Flyers & posters
  
• 
  
  Get involved
  

• Lesson plans and activities
• Community grants

Featured

Free materials to help raise skin cancer awareness

Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer.

Dermatologist-approved lesson plans, activities you can use

Free to everyone, these materials teach young people about common skin conditions, which can prevent misunderstanding and bullying.

Find a dermatologist

• 
  
  Find a dermatologist
  
• 
  
  What is a dermatologist?
  
• 
  
  FAAD: What it means
  
• 
  
  How to select a dermatologist
  
• 
  
  Your digital health
  
• 
  
  Prior authorization
  
• 
  
  Dermatologists team up to improve patient care
  

• Finding accurate health information
• Health apps
• Wearable medical devices
• Telemedicine
• Protect your information

Featured

Find a Dermatologist

You can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist that’s right for you.

What is a dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists care for people of all ages.

Nail Psoriasis: Picture, Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention

Written by Paula Ford-Martin

• Symptoms of Nail Psoriasis
• Prevention of Nail Psoriasis
• Treatments for Nail Psoriasis

If you have psoriasis and you notice some changes in your nails, there are many treatments you can turn to for help.

Nail psoriasis alters the way your toenails and fingernails look. They may get thick, develop pinprick holes, and change color or shape. They also can feel tender and hurt.

You can treat these problems with medicine. Cosmetic repairs can make your nails look better.

You’ll know you’re getting nail psoriasis when you see these changes in your fingernails or toenails:

• Color. Your nails may turn white, yellow, or brown. They may also have small red or white spots underneath.
• Surface appearance. You may get ridges or grooves in your nails or pitting (small pinprick holes) on the nail surface.
• Debris buildup. Chalky white material can gather under your nail, causing it to lift away from the skin. This can be painful.
• Thickening. About a third of people with nail psoriasis can also get a fungal infection that can cause your nails to get thick. They may also get brittle and break.
• Separation. Your nail may loosen or separate from the nail bed.

Some of these nail changes can make it hard to move your fingers and toes. You may also get tenderness and pain in your nails. This can make it hard to do things with your hands.

Good nail care is the best way to treat nail psoriasis. Try these prevention tips:

• Keep your nails trimmed short.
• Use a nail file to keep nail edges smooth.
• Wear gloves to clean and do other work with your hands.
• Moisturize your nails and cuticles every day and after they’ve been in contact with water.
• Wear comfortable shoes with enough room for your toes.

If you’re unhappy with the way your nails look, try nail varnish or artificial nails. They can also protect your nails from more damage. Some people are sensitive to the chemicals in varnish and nail adhesive. Talk to your doctor about whether these are right for you.

The same treatments you get for skin psoriasis can also treat your nail psoriasis. Because your nails grow slowly, it can take time before you see any improvements in the newly grown parts of your nail.

The treatments for nail psoriasis include:

Phototherapy. Ultraviolet light is used to treat skin psoriasis and may also be useful in nail psoriasis. The treatments usually take place in a doctor’s office or a clinic.

Medicines that work throughout your body. Your doctor may call these “systemic medications.” Some examples are:

• Acitretin (Soriatane)
• Apremilast (Otezla)
• Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)
• Methotrexate

Drugs that target specific parts of your immune system. You may hear your doctor call these “biologics.” They are given by injection under the skin, in a pill, or through an IV. Some examples are:

• TNF-alpha inhibitors:
  • Adalimumab (Humira)
  • Certolizumab pegol (Cimzia)
  • Etanercept (Enbrel)
  • Etanercept-szzs (Erelzi)
  • Infliximab (Remicade)
• Interleukin 17 inhibitors:
  • Brodalumab (Siliq)
  • Ixekizumab (Taltz)
  • Secukinumab (Cosentyx)
• Interleukin 23 inhibitors:
  • Risankinumab (Skyrizi)
  • Guselkumab (Tremfya)
  • TIldrakizumab (Ilumya)
• Interleukin 12 and 23 inhibitor:
  • Ustekinumab (Stelara)

Medicine you apply directly to your nails. Your doctor may call these “topical” drugs. For nail psoriasis, they may suggest a corticosteroid (such as clobetasol), vitamin D, or retinoid creams that you rub into your nail and cuticle every day.

If your nails are thick, the medicine you apply may have a hard time getting inside. Gels or ointments that contain urea can help thin them.

Your doctor may also prescribe a nail lacquer that hydrates and strengthens your nails. You apply it every day in the same way you put on nail polish.

Corticosteroid injections. These are put under your nail surface every 2-9 months. Your doctor will numb the area or use a nerve block to reduce pain.

Top Picks

information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of diseases

Enrollment is only possible through the contact center.

To register, fill out the form below and you will be contacted.

You are enrolling:

Clinic: {{department}}

Specialty: {{specialty}}

Service: {{service}}

Doctor: {{doctor}}

Date and time:
Choose an appointment time
{{form.date | setTime(form.time) | dateTimeFormatted}}

Date of birth: {{age | dateFormatted}}

{{confirmWarning}}

{{appointmentReply}}

By clicking “Sign up”, I accept the terms of the user agreement, the provisions on the protection of personal data and give my consent to the processing of personal data.

In order to pass the mandatory registration, you must come to the registration desk 10 minutes before your appointment with your passport.
If the patient is a minor (children under 18), it is mandatory to be accompanied by one of the parents with the presentation of his passport and birth certificate of the child.

Relatives and third parties accompanying a minor must have a notarized consent of the parents or legal representatives.

If you have made an appointment with a coloproctologist, please read the information about preparing for an appointment

The price of the consultation includes:
History taking, preliminary diagnosis and examination. All additional doctor’s manipulations at the appointment are paid according to the price list.

If you change your mind, please unsubscribe from the appointment by phone +7 (812) 435-55-55

The price of the consultation includes:
History taking, preliminary diagnosis and examination appointment. All additional doctor’s manipulations at the appointment are paid according to the price list.

If you change your mind, please unsubscribe from the appointment using your Personal Account or by phone +7 (812) 435-55-55.

Are you sure you want to stop recording?

If you have any questions, call us at +7 (812) 435-55-55

Are you sure you want to change the current entry?

If you have any questions, call us at +7 (812) 435-55-55

You are subject to some restrictions on online booking.

Appointment possible via contact center.
You can sign up by phone +7 (812) 435-55-55

The specialist does not see patients of the specified age. To register please fill out the form below and you will be contacted.

Make an appointment

Would you like us to call you
?

Name

Telephone

By clicking on the button, you consent
to the processing of your personal data

You will be contacted to confirm your application.

information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of diseases

Enrollment is only possible through the contact center.

To register, fill out the form below and you will be contacted.

You are enrolling:

Clinic: {{department}}

Specialty: {{specialty}}

Service: {{service}}

Doctor: {{doctor}}

Date and time:
Choose an appointment time
{{form.date | setTime(form.time) | dateTimeFormatted}}

Date of birth: {{age | dateFormatted}}

{{confirmWarning}}

{{appointmentReply}}

By clicking “Sign up”, I accept the terms of the user agreement, the provisions on the protection of personal data and give my consent to the processing of personal data.

In order to pass the mandatory registration, you must come to the registration desk 10 minutes before your appointment with your passport.
If the patient is a minor (children under 18), it is mandatory to be accompanied by one of the parents with the presentation of his passport and birth certificate of the child.

Relatives and third parties accompanying a minor must have a notarized consent of the parents or legal representatives.

If you have booked an appointment with a coloproctologist, please read the information on preparing for an appointment

The price of the consultation includes:
History taking, preliminary diagnosis and examination appointment. All additional doctor’s manipulations at the appointment are paid according to the price list.

If you change your mind, please unsubscribe from the appointment by phone +7 (812) 435-55-55

The price of the consultation includes:
History taking, preliminary diagnosis and examination appointment.