Nail Psoriasis: Clinicopathologic Correlation and Review of Medical Literature

ABSTRACT

Nail psoriasis, affecting up to 50% of cutaneous psoriasis patients (5%-10% isolated), causes symptoms like nail thickening, pitting, and onycholysis, impairing quality of life and linking to psoriatic arthritis. Histologically, it shows subungual hyperkeratosis and parakeratosis (distinct from onychomycosis via negative PAS fungal staining). Dermoscopy and high-frequency ultrasonography aid diagnosis/monitoring. Treatments include topical agents, systemic drugs, and biologics (e.g., IL-17 inhibitors). Personalized care and prevention (avoiding trauma) matter, with future research targeting molecular mechanisms and long-term therapy efficacy.