Onychogryposis is a medical condition that causes thickening and excessive curvature of toenails and fingernails. It is spelled as /ˌɒnɪˌkəʊɡraɪˈpəʊsɪs/ and consists of various Greek words, including onych- meaning nail, gryposis meaning hook or curved, and -osis indicating a medical condition. The pronunciation may be a challenge due to the combination of consonant clusters and the varying vowel sounds, but it is necessary for healthcare professionals to understand and communicate properly with patients.
Onychogryposis is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by the abnormal growth and thickening of the nails. The term is derived from the Greek words "onycho" meaning "nail" and "gryposis" meaning "curvature" or "hooking." This condition primarily affects the fingernails, but it can also involve the toenails.
Individuals with onychogryposis typically experience nail deformities that result in an abnormal shape, curvature, and length of the nails. The affected nails often become thick, hard, and brittle, resembling a ram's horn or a claw. The condition can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty in performing regular daily activities, such as wearing shoes or gloves.
Onychogryposis may be caused by various underlying factors, including genetic predisposition, trauma or injury to the nails, fungal infections, certain systemic diseases (such as psoriasis, lichen planus, or trachyonychia), or long-term exposure to pressure or repetitive mechanical stress on the nails. It is more commonly observed in older individuals, as the condition tends to develop gradually over time.
Treatment for onychogryposis typically involves managing the underlying cause and improving the overall nail health. This may include trimming and filing the affected nails, applying moisturizers or keratolytics to soften the nails, addressing any underlying infection or inflammation, and using orthopedic devices or custom-made shoes to reduce pressure on the nails. In severe cases, surgical procedures may be considered to correct the shape and length of the nails.
Enlargement with increased curvature of the nails of fingers or toes.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "onychogryposis" is derived from two Greek roots: "onycho" (ὄνυξ), meaning "nail", and "gryposis" (γρύπωσις), meaning "curvature" or "crookedness". Therefore, the literal translation of "onychogryposis" is "curvature of the nails".