Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Nail Disorders

Abstract

Fingernails and toenails are important organs of our body, serving as protection for the tips of fingers and toes. Fingernails also enhance fine touching and tactile sensitivity, as well as aid in the picking up of small objects. Healthy-looking nails are an important part of an individual's body image, and any nail abnormalities may be considered by patients as a significant cosmetic problem, markedly influencing their self-esteem. However, recent data have indicated that nail lesions are not only important because of cosmetic disfigurement, but may be a symptom of significant morbidity. Severe nail involvement was also shown to negatively impair social functioning and to interfere with work ability, thus markedly influencing a patient's well-being. Based on literature data and our own experience we conclude that nail diseases cause a marked decrease in health-related quality of life in a substantial percentage of patients. Nail changes are an important medical concern for patients and, therefore, nail diseases should raise attention and receive proper care from both physicians and other healthcare providers.

The microvascular and morphostructural changes of nails in psoriatic patients with nail disease; a link between ultrasound and videocapillaroscopy findings in the nailfold

“…Van Laborde et al have shown that there is an 80% to 90% lifetime incidence of nail involvement in psoriatic patients [4]. The presence of nail involvement of psoriasis is associated with an increase in patient-reported pain complaints, functional impairment and social burden, resulting in a significant restriction of daily activities and quality of life as well as resistance to treatment [5][6][7][8][9].…”

Ultrasonography in psoriatic disease

“…Nail psoriasis is usually diagnosed only by physical examination, observed features depending on nail matrix or nail bed involvement. The presence of nail psoriasis is clinically relevant as patients often complain of pain, functional impairment and social burden, resulting in a significant restriction of daily activities and quality of life [6][7][8].…”

Do Genetic Mutations and Genotypes Contribute to Onychomycosis?

“…The incidence of onychomycosis has been correlated with environmental risk factors such as occlusive footwear, occupational hazards, trauma, lack of rotation of shoes being worn, exposure in moist environments such as health clubs and swimming pools, family members with onychomycosis and pets as well as surfaces they frequent and potentially contaminate within the household [4,5,6,7]. Onychomycosis is associated with patient dissatisfaction and decreased quality of life [8,9]. It is a common comorbidity of advanced age [10], diabetes [11,12], peripheral vascular disease [13], HIV [14], immunosuppression [15], obesity [16] and smoking [13].…”