What should you know about nail lichen planus causes?

Inflammation near the nail matrix can change the way a nail is formed. The result may be ridges, splitting, thinning, roughness, or a groove running along the nail. Some people also have itchy skin, purple or reddish bumps, scalp changes, or mouth soreness, while others notice nail findings alone. Lichen planus is not caused by poor hygiene and is not something another person catches through ordinary contact. A damaged nail can resemble fungal infection or trauma, so a dermatologist may examine the skin, mouth, and nails together.

Protect affected nails from picking, harsh chemicals, and repeated wet work. Use moisturiser on surrounding skin and keep nails trimmed without cutting the cuticle. Treatment depends on the site and severity of inflammation. Topical corticosteroids may be used on accessible skin or around a nail under medical direction; oral corticosteroid treatment may be considered for more extensive or rapidly active disease. Do not start steroid medicine on a suspected infection without an assessment, because it can change how some infections behave.

Arrange a dermatology review for new nail ridging, splitting, thinning, or a nail that is becoming permanently distorted. Seek earlier care for painful inflammation, mouth sores that interfere with eating, widespread itchy skin, or sudden changes affecting several nails. A tender swollen nail fold or drainage also needs assessment because infection can coexist with inflammation.

Ask whether the nail pattern fits lichen planus, whether the skin or mouth should be checked, and whether testing or a biopsy would clarify the diagnosis. Discuss the aim of treatment, possible steroid side effects, and how to protect the nail matrix from further injury.