Onychorrhexis

Onychorrexis refers to the presence of longitudinal ridges or splits in the nail plate — often running from the base to the tip of the nail. It can affect both fingernails and toenails. In toenails it is commonly seen due to pressure, trauma, too tight footwear, or underlying health issues.

See also: Onychoschizia

Onychorrhexis
Other names	Brittle nails
Onicorrexis in a adult
Specialty	Dermatology

Onychorrhexis (from the Greek words ὄνυχο- ónycho-, "nail" and ῥῆξις rhexis, "bursting"), is a brittleness with breakage of finger or toenails that may result from hypothyroidism, anemia, anorexia nervosa or bulimia, or after oral retinoid therapy.^[1]: 786 It can also be seen in melanoma that involves the nail and onychomycosis.^[2]

Onychorrhexis affects up to 20% of the population.^{[1]: 786 [3]}

See also

• Nail anatomy
• List of cutaneous conditions