A disorder affecting the fingernails and/or toenails may affect a patient's quality of life, sometimes out of proportion to the actual appearance.
Variables determining the impact of the nail disorder:
(1) aesthetic appearance of the nails
(2) number of nails affected
(3) visibility of affected nails
(4) sensitivity of the patient about personal appearance
Factors determining the impact on the patient's quality of life:
(1) pain and discomfort
(2) ability to hide affected nails
(3) stigma
(4) loss of self-esteem
A severe nail condition may cause disability affecting:
(1) work
(2) social activities
(3) activities of daily living
