title: Histologic features of nail cosmetics.
abstract: Nail cosmetics and adornments are widely used in today's society. However, their histologic features are not well characterized. Routine histologic examination and polarization of nail plate specimens in our academic dermatopathology practice at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania revealed 3 distinct histologic patterns of nail cosmetics: a hyperpigmented pattern with diffuse fine granular material, a layered pattern with a single linear band of polarizable material, and a hyperpigmented pattern with larger granules containing flecks of polarizable material. In our experience, submitting clinicians rarely indicate the patient's use of nail polish or other enhancements. Recognition of the histologic features of nail cosmetics is important to prevent confusion with dermatoses affecting the nail unit, and it will help dermatopathologists render more accurate diagnoses.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6142, USA.
authors.forename: Rachel B
authors.initials: RB
authors.lastname: Anolik
authors.forename: Rosalie
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Elenitsas
authors.forename: Satoko
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Minakawa
authors.forename: Jennifer
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Nguyen
authors.forename: Adam I
authors.initials: AI
authors.lastname: Rubin
mesh_terms: D016477:Artifacts; D001706:Biopsy; D004396:Coloring Agents; D003358:Cosmetics; D006801:Humans; D009260:Nail Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D009262:Nails / Q000473:pathology*; D010414:Pennsylvania; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D015203:Reproducibility of Results
chemical_list: D004396:Coloring Agents; D003358:Cosmetics