Nail Disorders in Children

Blistering Distal Dactylitis

Children aged between 2 to 16 years and adults with compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to a condition known as blistering distal dactylitis. This condition is characterized by the development of a large and painful blister located in the fatty area of the distal phalanx of the foot; occasionally, it may also occur in the hands. The underlying cause of this affliction is a bacterial infection.

Herpetic Whitlow

Herpetic whitlow arises from an infection with the herpes simplex virus. This condition manifests as a painful sore, referred to as a whitlow, primarily affecting the fleshy areas surrounding the index and thumb fingers. Several symptoms and signs accompany this condition, including:

  • A burning and tingling sensation in the affected area prior to the appearance of the whitlow.
  • Redness in the finger along with the formation of pus-filled blisters.
  • Rupture of the blisters.
  • Fever.
  • Red halos surrounding the whitlow.
  • Swelling of lymph nodes in the armpit and elbow.

Longitudinal Melanonychia

Longitudinal melanonychia presents itself as a brown or black stripe on the nail. This pigmentation results from the accumulation of melanin in the nail plate, which can occur due to various reasons.

Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis begins as yellow and white spots under the nail, and as the fungal infection progresses, the nail color changes, becomes thicker, and tends to crumble at the edges.

Periungual Warts

Periungual warts typically affect children and young adults, particularly those who have the habit of nail biting. While treating these warts can be challenging, early intervention can facilitate effective removal. Like all warts, periungual warts are caused by a viral infection.

Nail Pitting

Nail pitting leads to the emergence of rough longitudinal lines on the surface of the nails. In a different type, it may cause the nails to appear shiny with pits. This condition can affect all fingers and toes.

References

  1. ↑ “Visual Diagnosis”, www.ebmedicine.net, Retrieved 25-4-2019. Edited.
  2. ↑ Jon Johnson (31-5-2017), “What’s to know about herpetic whitlow?”, www.medicalnewstoday.com, Retrieved 31-3-2019. Edited.
  3. ↑ Susan J. Huang (15-12-2018), “Longitudinal Melanonychia Causes”, www.verywellhealth.com, Retrieved 31-3-2019. Edited.
  4. ↑ “Nail fungus”, www.mayoclinic.org, 3-6-2019, Retrieved 31-3-2019. Edited.
  5. ↑ Marjorie Hecht (3-1-2017), “Everything You Should Know About Periungual Warts”, www.healthline.com, Retrieved 25-4-2019. Edited.
  6. ↑ Jessica S. Haber, Manasmon Chairatchaneeboon, Adam I. Rubina (21-9-2016), “Trachyonychia: Review and Update on Clinical Aspects, Histology, and Therapy”, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, Retrieved 31-3-2019. Edited.

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