Atypical changes in the nail apparatus in a patient with atopic dermatitis – a clinical case report

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic recurrent skin disease characterised by itching and eczematous skin lesions. The paper presents the case of a 62-year-old female patient suffering from atopic dermatitis, in whom symptoms were observed within the nail apparatus of the hand, including red rings, Beau lines, lack of cuticle and lichenification with erosions, cracks, scabs, and residual blisters on the backs of the hands. The patient experienced severe itching, which led to increased manipulations within the nail apparatus (onychotillomania), which was reflected in the presence of the so-called tare nails. The patient’s treatment included the use of topical medications, including clobetasol propionate, mometasone, and tacrolimus 0.1%, as well as intensive hand lubrication and the use of specialised hand cleansers. Intensification of mental health care was also recommended. The presented case highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to the treatment of atopic dermatitis, especially in the era of new therapeutic methods.