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Nail dystrophy
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Nail dystrophy
- Also known as onychodystrophy.
Summary
Nail dystrophy refers to a condition where the nails become malformed, discolored, or otherwise appear abnormal. It can affect fingernails or toenails and varies in severity from mild discoloration to complete nail loss.
Causes
- Trauma or injury to the nail or nail bed.
- Fungal infections such as onychomycosis.
- Skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema.
- Genetic predispositions or congenital abnormalities.
- Systemic diseases, including diabetes or thyroid disorders.
Risk Factors
- Family history of nail disorders.
- Chronic exposure to moisture or chemicals.
- Pre-existing skin conditions.
- Advanced age, as older adults often experience more nail irregularities.
Symptoms
- Brittle, cracked, or split nails.
- Thickening or thinning of nails.
- Change in nail color or texture.
- Abnormal nail shape or detachment from the nail bed.
Diagnosis
- Physical examination of the nails.
- Laboratory tests, including fungal cultures or biopsies, to rule out infections.
- Occasionally, blood tests to identify underlying systemic conditions.
Treatment Options
- Antifungal medications if caused by infections.
- Topical treatments for conditions like psoriasis.
- Avoidance of triggering factors, such as harsh chemicals.
- Use of protective gloves to minimize trauma.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Highly variable, dependent on the underlying cause.
- Many cases improve with appropriate treatment and avoidance of triggers.
- Regular dermatological appointments may be necessary for chronic cases.
Complications
- Secondary bacterial or fungal infections.
- Permanent nail deformity in severe or advanced cases.
- Impact on self-esteem or quality of life due to cosmetic concerns.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Keep nails trimmed and clean.
- Protect hands with gloves when exposed to moisture or chemicals.
- Maintain good overall health, including managing chronic conditions like diabetes.
- Avoid trauma to nails by wearing appropriate footwear and using safe grooming techniques.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Rapid changes in nail appearance or structure.
- Signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus.
- Pain or discomfort associated with nails.
Additional Resources
- American Academy of Dermatology: aad.org
- National Psoriasis Foundation: psoriasis.org
- Mayo Clinic guide on Nail Disorders: mayoclinic.org
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate identification of all contributing causes for comprehensive coding.
- Confirm whether nail dystrophy is primary or secondary to other conditions for precise classification.
- Double-check documentation for specifications, such as affected nails and severity, to avoid undercoding or overcoding.