Psoriatic Nails

Sometimes things are not as they seem, and this goes for nails as well.  A patient may come into the office suspecting that they have a fungus, only to find out that they have another condition causing changes in their nails.  Psoriasis is a common autoimmune condition that is most well known for the red plaques with silvery scales it causes on the extensor surfaces of the body.  Psoriasis runs in families, but it is not contagious.  People with psoriatic nails display a characteristic pitting of the nail, look of an oil droplet beneath the nail, and a nail with white debris.  20% of the people with psoriatic nails also have an associated psoriatic arthritis

The first step to treating this nail condition is diagnosis.  Psoriatic nails may appear to be a fungus, even to a well trained podiatrist, so a nail biopsy is always a first step in the diagnosis of the nail pathology. When the diagnosis is finally made, appropriate treatment can begin which may include topical steroid creams or ointments, systemic therapy with drugs such as methotrexate or Humira, or PUVA light therapy.  Surgical removal of the nail is a treatment reserved for recalcitrant cases.

If you have questions about Psoriatic Nails, we have much more information on our website www.nastfootandankle.com. For an appointment please call our office at 305.220.3636 or visit our website for an appointment request. You can also sign up for our newsletter and request my FREE podiatry book.

Jorge F. Nasr, DPM
11760 Bird Road, Suite 610
Miami, FL 33173
305.220.3636
www.nasrfootandankle.com