Prevalence of subungual exostosis in Hallux onychodystrophies

Abstract

Introduction: Nails are an attachment of the skin with specific characteristics. They have a smooth and shiny surface, a reddish pink translucent color and a firm thickness and consistency. They present a well-defined curvature so that they can attach to the distal area of the toe and follow its anatomical shape as well as the shape of the distal phalanx. Anatomically, they consist of several elements, each with its specific features. In addition to their aesthetic function, toenails contribute indirectly to the biomechanics of human gait and they also protect the bone. Nails can be affected by various diseases - changes that are called onychodystrophies, because they modify nail’s anatomical features. The Subungual Exostosis (SE) is defined as an outgrowth of bone that occurs on the distal phalanx of the hallux and it is of unknown etiology. It causes painful symptoms and can also cause onychodystrophy. Aims: To study the prevalence of SE in hallux onychodystrophies; to observe the relationship of SE to gender and the presence of pain; to analyze the relationship and seriousness of SE to diabetes mellitus (DM) and age. Methodology: The data collection took place between September two thousand and thirteen and July two thousand and fourteen. The data were collected from sixty-seven individuals who attended the podiatry consultations in the Hospital Center of Alto Ave, E.P.E - Guimarães Unit and S. João Hospital, E.P.E – Valongo Unit. Injuries were photographed, on minimal radiation occlusion radiography, and x-rayed for further analysis. Results: The prevalence of SE in hallux. onychodystrophies is 91%. The female gender is the most affected, with an incidence of 59.7%, and pain is present in 76.1% of the enquired individuals. In what refers to age, the younger individuals present higher severity of subungual exostosis. As for DM (DM) and the presence and severity of SE, there were no relevant differences verified. Conclusion: We conclude that there is a high prevalence of SE in hallux onychodystrophies, with a higher incidence in women and greater pathological severity in younger individuals.