Median nail dystrophy with multiple central grooves on the thumbnails.
Central thickening and splitting of thumbnails in median nail dystrophy.
CLINICAL FEATURES
Rubbing of the thumbnail and proximal nail fold of the thumb with the index finger on the same hand results in central transverse grooves of the thumb nail and may eventuate in central thickening and splitting of the thumb nail. Usually both thumbnails are involved; one may be more severely affected than the other. Median nail dystrophy begins as a habit and is usually seen in the preteen or teenage child. The habit often disappears in adult life.
TREATMENT
Breaking the habit may be difficult, although wearing gloves may limit access to the thumb nails. If the habit stops it requires 6 to 12 months to revert to normal.
