Onychodystrophy is commonly associated with alopecia areata (AA), with a prevalence ranging from 7%-66%. Either some or all of the nails may be affected. If all nails are affected, it is commonly referred to as twenty-nail dystrophy. The most common nail abnormalities are pitting and trachyonychia, but longitudinal ridging, onycholysis, red spotted lunulae, and onychomadesis may also be seen.
Patients with more severe AA are more likely to have nail changes. Nail changes may precede, follow, or coincide with the onset of hair loss.
In children, pitting, trachyonychia, and onychomadesis are the most common nail changes. Spotted lunulae are only seen in conjunction with pitting in children.
Alopecia areata - Nail and Distal Digit
See also in: Overview,External and Internal Eye,Hair and ScalpAlerts and Notices
Important News & Links
Synopsis
Codes
ICD10CM:
L63.9 – Alopecia areata, unspecified
SNOMEDCT:
68225006 – Alopecia areata
L63.9 – Alopecia areata, unspecified
SNOMEDCT:
68225006 – Alopecia areata
Look For
Subscription Required
Diagnostic Pearls
Subscription Required
Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
To perform a comparison, select diagnoses from the classic differential
Subscription Required
Best Tests
Subscription Required
Management Pearls
Subscription Required
Therapy
Subscription Required
Drug Reaction Data
Subscription Required
References
Subscription Required
Last Reviewed:02/21/2024
Last Updated:05/31/2017
Last Updated:05/31/2017
Patient Information for Alopecia areata - Nail and Distal Digit
Premium Feature
VisualDx Patient Handouts
Available in the Elite package
- Improve treatment compliance
- Reduce after-hours questions
- Increase patient engagement and satisfaction
- Written in clear, easy-to-understand language. No confusing jargon.
- Available in English and Spanish
- Print out or email directly to your patient
Upgrade Today
Alopecia areata - Nail and Distal Digit
See also in: Overview,External and Internal Eye,Hair and Scalp
