Medical Terminology for Ingrown Nail
The medical term for an ingrown nail is onychocryptosis (also known as unguis incarnatus). 1, 2
Definition and Clinical Presentation
Onychocryptosis occurs when the nail edge grows into the periungual dermis, most frequently affecting the hallux (great toe). 1 The condition results in:
- Inflammation of the invaded tissue with pain, erythema, and swelling 1, 3
- Potential development of periungual pyogenic granulomas (granulation tissue) in severe cases 4
- Secondary infection when the periungual stratum corneum becomes thinner and the nail plate pierces the perionychium 4
Epidemiology
- Approximately 70% of cases occur in people between ages 12-30 years 3
- The condition has a biphasic presentation, being most common in the second and fifth decades of life 1
- It causes significant discomfort, pain, and restriction in daily activities 3
Risk Factors
Key contributing factors include:
- Improper nail trimming technique (cutting nails too short or not straight) 4, 2
- Repetitive or inadvertent trauma to the nail 1, 2
- Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) 1, 2
- Weight changes 1
- Genetic predisposition 2
- Poor foot hygiene 2
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes that cause excessive pressure 4
Clinical Terminology Context
In the context of drug-induced nail toxicities (particularly with targeted cancer therapies), onychocryptosis can develop as a secondary complication when the periungual stratum corneum thins, allowing the nail plate to pierce the perionychium and induce periungual inflammation. 4 This is distinct from primary onychocryptosis but uses the same medical terminology.