title: A hand surgeon's guide to common onychodystrophies.
abstract: The human fingernail contributes to the precise dexterity of the fingers, enhances sensibility, allows manipulation of fine objects, and shields the fingertip from traumatic injury. Nail abnormalities are a common incidental finding in the course of a hand surgeon's daily practice. These abnormalities may be clues to systemic, dermatologic, traumatic, and infectious processes that would benefit from further evaluation and treatment. The purpose of this review is to discuss common nail dystrophies and their related diagnoses.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics, University of Pittsburgh, Suite 1010, Kaufmann Bldg., 3471 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA.
authors.forename: John R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Fowler
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University of Pittsburgh, 3601 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA.
authors.forename: Elisha
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Stern
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, University of Pittsburgh, 3601 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA.
authors.forename: Joseph C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: English
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics, University of Pittsburgh, Suite 1010, Kaufmann Bldg., 3471 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213 USA.
authors.forename: Robert J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Goitz
keywords: Fingernail; Onychodystrophies