Your toenails and fingernails are protective tissues that are comprised of layers of a hardened protein called keratin, which also makes up part of your hair and skin. The health of your nails may be a clue to your overall health. A nail disorder, therefore, should not be ignored. Seek the expert treatment of the dermatologists at University of Miami Health System.

Nail problems that sometimes require treatment include:

• Bacterial infection
• Fungal infection (onychomycosis)
• Ingrown nails
• Tumors
• Warts

Symptoms of a nail disorder include:

• Abnormal appearance of the nail, such as patches of white or yellow discoloration
• Chalky, white scale beneath the nail’s surface that slowly spreads
• Thickened or deformed nails

Treatments

Antifungal Medication
If a fungus has caused your nail disorder, your dermatologist will prescribe an antifungal medication to clear up the affected areas.

Antibiotic Medication
If an infection has caused your nail disorder, your dermatologist will prescribe an antibiotic medication to clear up the infection.

Removal of Ingrown Nail
Your doctor may need to remove the ingrown nail. This is usually done in the office, and sometimes under local anesthetic (numbing).

Proper Hygiene
You should keep your nails trimmed short, thoroughly dry your feet after bathing (if toenails are affected), and wear absorbent socks.

Tests

Physical Exam
Through a medical examination of your nails, as well as a thorough review of your health history, we can accurately diagnose your nail disorder.

Biopsy
In some cases, your dermatologist may remove a small sample (biopsy) of the affected fingernail or toenail for closer analysis in the laboratory. Doing so can help determine the underlying cause of the nail problem.

Why Choose UHealth?

World-class leaders in skin care treatment. University of Miami Health System is recognized throughout South Florida and the world as a leader in caring for conditions and disorders of the skin. Backed by one of the nation’s top universities, our team uses the latest technologies and research-driven expertise to provide superior, personalized treatments for nail disorders.

Compassionate care in an academic medical center. Regardless of your age, condition, or whether you need long-term, short-term, or regenerative skin treatments, you will benefit from the state-of-the-art technology and latest medical advancements developed by our researchers at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. You will receive the most accurate diagnosis and a detailed plan to keep your skin, hair, and nails healthy.