The value of dermoscopy of the nail plate free edge and hyponychium.

The non-invasive examination of the nail unit using a dermoscope is known as onychoscopy. This technique has become increasingly appreciated to facilitate the clinical diagnosis of nail disorders, opening up a valuable second front with a potential to avoid invasive diagnostic procedures. During a nail consultation, the nail unit should always be examined with the aid of a dermatoscope in all its components. The aim of this paper was to provide practical information about onychoscopy of the nail plate free edge and hyponychium, two components of the nail unit difficult to evaluate at naked eye and often forgotten, but of paramount importance.