Barry presents with 12 month history of longitudinal nail grooves, occurring slowly over several weeks. It is mildly painful. He has no other medical history of note.

What is the mostly likely cause of this presentation?

1. Digital Myxoid cysts

What are the causes of longitudinal marks in nail plate – grooves?

1. Myxoid cysts
2. Angiofibroma
3. Ageing

What is the treatment for digital myxoid pseudocyst?

1. Repeatedly pressing firmly on the cyst
2. Squeezing out its contents (make a hole with a sterile needle)
3. Cryotherapy (freezing)
4. Steroid injection
5. Sclerosant injection
6. Surgical removal

Reading

1. Murtaghs General Practice Chapter 129 – http://murtagh.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=1522&sectionid=116046129
2. Murtaghs Practice Tips – Chapter 8 – Nail Problems – http://murtagh.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?bookid=1920&sectionid=143276631

Podcast

1. GP Core Content Podcast Episode 150 – Dermatology | Nails