Causes and risk factors
Onychorrhexis is commonly seen in people as the age advances. However, certain diseases can also trigger this condition. Hypothyroidism, Raynaud diseases, Sjogren disease are some of the main contributing factors. It is one of the common manifestations seen in psoriasis, eczema, and other skin disorders. Studies have revealed that certain genetic factors and external causes may add up to the causation. Improper nail care, prolonged exposure to heat, working in water for too long, and exposure to certain chemicals like nail polish, and even dryness of nails, all provide favorable conditions for the initiation of onychorrhexis. Unlike many other nail disorders, onychorrhexis can also be caused due to certain medications.
Clinical presentation:
The patients can come up with complaints of appearance of longitudinal lines on the nails. This gives a dull and rough surface to the nail plate. The nails become brittle and they break off easily. The breaking of nails is especially seen at the tips. Both the finger nails and toe nails can get affected. Either single or multiple fingers/toes can be involved. With the thickening of nails, dull appearance of nails, and arrested nail growth can also be seen. Apart from these complaints, the white and dull appearance of the nails can be a matter of worry from a cosmetic point of view.
Investigations
The diagnosis is done on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and physical examination carried out by the dermatologist. Dermoscopic examination is diagnostic. Along with this, certain other investigations can also be advised if any underlying cause has been detected.
Treatment
There is no effective treatment yet available for this condition. Onychorrhexis can be caused due to certain underlying diseases, and treating the underlying cause is the main line of treatment. If certain medications have induced this condition, they need to be stopped immediately. Proper care of nails is of foremost importance. Nail strengtheners or nail moisturizers can be used. Wearing protective gloves while working is recommended. In spite of treatment, if the infection tends to reoccur in some cases, mechanical removal of the nails can be done.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the disease. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
