Psoriasis Nail Treatments – What To Do When Psoriasis Affects Your Fingernails

A fairly common condition among psoriasis sufferers that affects the fingernails and/or toenails is known as nail psoriasis. In fact, about half of those who suffer from psoriasis will also have the condition present in the nails as well. As with all types of psoriasis, there’s no known cure for a psoriasis nail condition but there are treatments available. Getting help is important because sufferers often face problems with self esteem and confidence as a result of the condition. It may also increase your risk of psoriatic arthritis, a related but more serious condition.

How Does Psoriasis Affect Nails?

When you think about fingernail psoriasis and treatment options, you first have to understand that psoriasis is able to affect the way in which nails form. Those who are affected usually are afflicted with psoriasis elsewhere on their body, commonly on the joints and the skin. It’s rare to see someone that has only the condition only on the nails. In the event that nail psoriasis is severe and goes untreated, it can lead to social and functional problems.

Treatment Options For Psoriasis Affecting The Nails

Your treatment of nail psoriasis will depend upon two things: the type and severity of the condition. If you suffer from psoriasis on areas other than your nails, your doctor may not only recommend treatment to alleviate these symptoms, but you may find that it helps your nails as well. Here are several of the treatment options available:

Topical Treatments

The following medications are used in the treatment of nail psoriasis:

Dovonex – a synthetic form of Vitamin D3. This treatment is helpful because of its ability to decrease the rate of cell growth. (Also known as calcipotriene)

Corticosteroids – Higher potency versions are use as anti-inflammatories. However, they can be used on a temporary basis only.

Cordran – A steroid that’s applied to affected nails in tape form. (Also known as flurandrenolide)

5-Fluroruracil Cream – Works to reduce nail pitting.

Tazorac -  Used to help slow down cell growth. (Also known as tazarotene)

Corticosteroid Injections

In certain cases psoriasis nail treatments entail having steroid injections to the matrix or the nail bed. This may temporarily provide some relief for those who suffer from this disease.

Psoralen And Ultraviolet Light (PUVA)

PUVA is a particular kind of phototherapy. It treatment uses a UVA light as well as psoralen which is a light sensitizing drug. PUVA is found to be advantageous in slowing cell growth. When this therapy is used, it may involve an oral dose of psoralen as well as a nail application prior to treatment.

Cosmetic Nail Repair

In certain cases, it may be necessary to undergo surgery or use a urea compound to remove nails that have been deformed by the condition. Excessively long or thick nails can be filed while pitting can be smoothed through buffing and then coated with polish. Discoloration and minor deformities may benefit cosmetically from artificial nail application.