Onychogryphosis

What is it

Onychogryphosis is thickening of the nail/s that may produce them to resemble a "rams horn," yellowish brownish discolouration can occur also. 

Why did I get it?

• Trauma: from direct impact, e.g dropping an object on the nail, or repetitive trauma/pressure, e.g. tight fitting shoes

• Secondary to a fungal infection in the nail

• Vascular disease

• Neglect: not cutting toenails for a long period of time

Symptoms

The nail is thickened, possibly yellowish/brownish discolouration to the nail which in some cases can resemble a fungal nail. It is very difficult to cut and can be painful on downward pressure

How is it diagnosed?

Physical Examination and possible nail sample to be sent to rule out fungal infection.

Possible treatments:

You podiatrist can cut the nail and decrease the thickness of the effected nail/s, attempt to remove/correct the causative factor. Occasionally the damage to the nail is permanent and regular podiatric care is the best alternative.