An Exceptional Case of Acquired Ectopic Fingernail without Trauma / 대한피부과학회지

ABSTRACT

Ectopic nails are rare and characterized by the growth of nail-like structures in a location other than the typical nail unit. Diagnosis of the ectopic nail is based on histologic examination consistent with a fully developed nail plate and matrix structure. Surgical resection of the entire matrix of ectopic nails is the gold standard for management.Cases of acquired ectopic nails without traumatic events have rarely been reported. A 25-year-old woman presented with a 15-year nail-like structure below the 4th fingernail of the left hand. She denied any history of trauma.Histologically, the keratinous structure was consistent with the nail plate. Plain radiography revealed an osteolytic lesion on the distal phalanx. However, she refused further evaluation and surgical excision. Herein, we report a unique case of an acquired ectopic nail without trauma.