The nail in the elderly

Abstract

Treating elderly patients has become common in daily clinical practice. Consequently, it is important to focus our interest on a neglected region: the nail area. Anatomy and physiology are indispensable for a good comprehension of some phenomenons. Histopathology of senile changes may explain some pathologic situations and is indispensable for diagnosing uncommon tumors. Chemical composition shows that a normal nail contains 18% water. The rate of linear nail decreases as age advances. Ridging is a normal finding on fingernails, with color varying from shades of yellow to grey. The most common disorders, however, are linked to repeated trauma, with sometimes ingrowing toenails with different appearances. Tumors in the nail area are relatively frequent. Nail fungal infection may be isolated or associated with conditions such as psoriasis and diabetes. The management of the main nail disorders observed in the elderly are presented.