Nail psoriasis – colloquially called nail psoriasis – (synonyms: Nail psoriasis; ICD-10-GM L40.9: Psoriasis, unspecified) refers to changes in the area of the fingernails and toenails. Characteristic are so-called spotted nails (pinhead-sized indentations) and oil spots (yellowish-brownish discolorations), sometimes also a detachment of the nails (see under “Symptoms”). Usually the fingernails are affected, less frequently the toenails.
Frequently, nail psoriasis occurs in the setting of psoriasis (psoriasis; in adults, 10-55% of cases; in children, 30-40% of cases) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA; 72.5%); but only 41.5% of patients without PsA show nail psoriasis. Nail psoriasis may rarely occur without psoriasis on other parts of the body.
Course and prognosis: The changes in the nails are primarily an aesthetic problem for many affected persons. In addition, the changes in the nails can be painful and restrict movement. Timely diagnosis and treatment by a dermatologist (dermatologist) experienced in this field is crucial. As a rule, treatment is lengthy.
Nail involvement is considered a negative prognostic factor for healing of skin lesions of psoriasis; after 24 weeks of treatment, 40% of patients with nail involvement were less likely to achieve the goal of healing. CONCLUSION: These patients require a longer duration of therapy.
