Introduction

Nail psoriasis is an expression of psoriasis primarily affecting the nails, manifesting itself with distinct physical symptoms and significant implications for patients' quality of life. This type of psoriasis causes pain, deformity and aesthetic difficulties, requiring a rigorous medical and psychological approach.

The diversity of symptoms and the complexity of the genetic causes of nail psoriasis demand a thorough understanding for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, differentiating this condition from other similar nail diseases.

Symptoms of nail psoriasis

Manifestations of nail psoriasis include thimble-like punctuations, discoloration under the nail, and thickened or peeling nails, known as onycholysis. These manifestations can seriously compromise patients' self-esteem, and are often painful.

Early identification is crucial to limiting damage and moving towards personalized treatment, reducing the risk of psoriatic arthritis and other severe complications.

Causes and genetic factors

Nail psoriasis is strongly influenced by genetics, with patterns apparent in families affected by psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Recent studies highlight the role of cytokines, such as interferons and interleukins, in the pathogenesis of this disease, offering prospects for the development of more targeted treatments.

Processing and management

The management of nail psoriasis often combines medications, systemic and local therapies, tailored to the severity of symptoms and patient preferences. Advanced treatments such as phototherapy, cytokine inhibitors and new biological therapies are showing promising results.

For patients, management also includes lifestyle adjustments and the use of suitable products to protect affected nails and minimize the impact of symptoms.