Treatment of nail diseases in the emergency department.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Although Americans seek care for their nail diseases on an outpatient basis, they also seek nail care in the setting of the emergency department (ED). PURPOSE: This study aims to characterize the treatment of nail diseases at ED visits in the United States from 2009-2018. METHODS: Data from 2009-2018 was collected from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey for EDs. RESULTS: There was an estimated 1.54 (95% CI [1.35, 1.74]) million nail visits to the ED from 2009-2018. Whites accounted for the most visits (57%), followed by African Americans (21%). 25-44-year-olds was the age group with the most visits. The South was the region with the most visits (33%). The most common diagnosis was paronychia (42%). Treatments for paronychia included oral antibiotics, incision and drainage, or both. LIMITATIONS: The accuracy of reporting the correct diagnosis remains the biggest limitation. CONCLUSIONS: Nail disease visits accounted for over a million visits to the ED from 2009-2018. All ages and sexes were represented in these visits. Paronychia made up the largest portion of visits and was treated with oral antibiotics, incision and drainage, or both.