Onychomadesis

Onychomadesis is a periodic idiopathic shedding of the nails beginning at the proximal end, possibly caused by the temporary arrest of the function of the nail matrix.^:784:660 One cause in children is hand, foot, and mouth disease. This generally resolves without complication.

Onychomadesis can also occur if the nail is damaged or suffers a loss of blood supply; for example, due to a bruise. The nailbed turns black, and the nail drops off shortly afterwards. It takes around 6 to 12 months to regrow.

See also

• Patterned acquired hypertrichosis
• List of cutaneous conditions