What should you know about thumb nail psoriasis?

Nail psoriasis may produce tiny depressions, roughness, oil-drop-like colour changes, or material beneath the nail. It can affect the nail matrix, bed, or surrounding skin, so the visible pattern varies. A fungal infection and repeated injury can appear similar. Nail findings may occur with skin psoriasis, and joint pain, stiffness, or swollen fingers should be mentioned because they can alter the assessment.

Keep the nail short without cutting the cuticle, use gloves for wet or abrasive tasks, and avoid biting, scraping, or pushing tools beneath the nail. Moisturising the hands and surrounding skin can reduce splitting. A dermatologist may recommend a prescribed topical medicine, an injection into a selected nail area, or treatment that works throughout the body when skin or joint disease also needs control.

Book an assessment for a new or worsening nail change, persistent tenderness, or separation that catches on clothing. Seek prompt care for pus, spreading redness, marked swelling, or severe pain. If a dark band, bleeding, or a change limited to one nail appears, have it examined rather than assuming it is psoriasis.

Ask whether the nail needs testing for fungus, whether your joints should be checked, which treatment targets the affected nail, and how to protect the nail during regrowth.