Onychocryptosis

Abstract

Onychocryptosis is prevalent globally and most often the result of self-attempts at curing the condition in its earliest stages. Its clinical presentation is often confused with a number of osseous and soft tissue abnormalities, some of which have great import to a patient's overall welfare. Treatment consists of local and systemic care, including nail avulsion. Recurrences are reduced when some form of matricectomy is used. Matricectomy techniques vary and must be selected on the basis of caregiver and patient preference. Although the chemical matricectomy is popular, care must be exercised in selecting patients for its use.