Nail changes in autoimmune blistering disorders: A case-control study

Abstract

Background: Pemphigus and pemphigoid disorders produce blistering cutaneous lesions. Earlier case reports state that nail involvement is uncommon in these autoimmune blistering disorders.

Aims and objectives: To study nail changes in autoimmune blistering disorders.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted where 40 cases and 40 controls were evaluated for nail changes.

Results: Nail changes were seen in 72.5% of cases and 17.5% of controls. The most common nail findings were paronychia and onychorrhexis.

Limitations: Small sample size; short study duration; nail biopsy could not be done.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the inflammatory nature of the blistering cutaneous disease is often reflected conspicuously in the nails.

Keywords: Autoimmune blistering disorders; nail; paronychia; pemphigoid; pemphigus.