Trauma a major contributing factor of retronychia: Case series.

Abstract

Introduction: Retronychia is defined as a condition where the proximal nail plate grows into the proximal nail fold with the formation of multiple layers of nail plates. It relates to frequent microtrauma that affects the toenails, especially the big toe and it is less common on the fingernails.

Case presentation: Case 1: A 14-year-old female presented with nail growth stopped and painful swelling in her left hallux that did not respond to antibiotics. The patient had been traumatized at the same toenail. Retronychia was diagnosed, and nail avulsion was performed. Case 2: An 18-year-old man came with painful swelling and stopped growth in his right great toenail that did not improve with antibiotics. The patient had previously trauma the same toenail. Retronychia was diagnosed clinically, and nail avulsion was performed. Case 3: A 30-years-old woman presented with Inflammation and pain in her right toenail. She mentioned a previous trauma to her foot. Retronychia was diagnosed clinically and she underwent onychectomy.

Discussion: Retronychia is a chronic nail abnormity based on unresolved chronic proximal paronychia caused by disintegrated nail growth and several generations of nail plate localization underneath the damaged nail. The most common reason for retronychia is trauma which also happens after repetitive micro-trauma. Clinical diagnosis is the basis of retronychia. Retronychia treatment varies between surgical treatment and conservative treatment.

Conclusion: This paper highlights the importance of considering retronychia as a potential differential diagnosis in cases of chronic paronychia, and stresses the significance of early detection to prevent complications.