Onychomadesis Following Frostbite

Abstract

Onychomadesis is an anomaly of nails characterized by shedding of nail plates due to temporary arrest in the activity of the nail matrix. Systemic or local factors ranging from acute febrile illnesses, auto-immune diseases, drugs, chemotherapy, trauma, etc., have been known to cause onychomadesis. We report a unique case of onychomadesis following frostbite in a serving soldier posted at high altitude and extreme cold climate area.