This image displays onycholysis, which means lifting of the nail from the nail bed. As displayed in this image, in onycholysis, the nail is lifted from the nail bed and appears white or yellow. Onycholysis has many causes, including psoriasis, fungal nail infection, or a reaction to a medication. This image displays onycholysis (lifting of the nail) caused by psoriasis. This image displays onycholysis caused by medication. This image displays nails that have separated from the nail bed, caused by onycholysis. Onychomycosis often affects only the great toenail and may show separation of the plate from the nail bed as well as yellowing and thickening of the nail plate.
Top Background Graphic
About Us | Contact Us | Site Map
Text Size SmallText Size MediumText Size Large
VisualDxHealth - Your guide to a clear picture of health
Health ToolsHealth TopicsDisease ListWidgetsFor Doctors

Nail Lifting (Onycholysis):
Information for adults

Left Nav Bottom
Try our Disease Finder
Page Tools Top Graphic
Page Tools Top Graphic
Page Tools Bottom Graphic
Page Tools Bottom Graphic
Picture of Nail Lifting (Onycholysis): This image displays onycholysis, which means lifting of the nail from the nail bed. Divider line
This image displays onycholysis, which means lifting of the nail from the nail bed.
left arrow
right arrow
Self-Care Guidelines
  • Thoroughly clip away as much of the detached nail as possible, repeating this at weekly intervals.
  • Gently brush the nail and surrounding tissue with plain soap and water once daily, rinsing carefully, and then drying the area with a hair dryer.
  • Protect the nails by wearing plastic gloves worn over light cotton gloves to avoid frequent contact with water. Use any mild cleanser as an alternative to water and soap.
When to Seek Medical Care
See your doctor if the nail lifting becomes bothersome. Your doctor may perform tests for conditions or infection that may be causing the nail lifting.
Last Modified: 29 Jan 2008

Prev: Signs and Symptoms
Next: Treatments Your Physician May Prescribe

HON CODE Seal. Accredited 3/2007
We comply with HONcode standards
for health information
verify here

Copyright © 2006-2008 Logical Images, Inc. All rights reserved.

The data contained in the VisualDxHealth™ Worldwide Web pages such as text, images, and graphics are for informational purposes only. The data is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment. Please see our disclaimer.