Pterygium inversum unguis secondary to gel polish

Abstract

Background

Pterygium inversum unguis (PIU) is characterized by the abnormal adherence of the hyponychium to the ventral surface of the nail plate. It can be both unsightly and painful, resulting in morbidity for patients. Gel polish is a popular nail cosmetic that has been reported to cause several complications. PIU may be another adverse outcome.

Objective

To highlight a newly-recognized adverse effect of a popular beauty technique.

Methods

This retrospective and prospective case series reports 17 women who developed PIU after gel polish use. All study related activities occurred at a University of Miami dermatology outpatient clinic.

Results

All 17 subjects developed PIU after two to five years of gel polish application. Nine out of 17 patients reported using both UVA and LED light to cure gel polish. Of the remaining 8, 5 used LED-light only and 3 did not know or couldn't remember. All but two patients had resolution of PIU a few weeks after switching from gel polish to regular polish manicures.

Conclusion

While it remains undiscerned whether PIU is related to chemicals present in the gel polish or to the application and/or removal process of such, patients and dermatologists should be aware of the potential risks of gel manicures.

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