Radiological Imaging of Nail Disorders (PART II) - Radiological Features of Nail Disease.

We have seen that radiological techniques like digital x-ray, high-frequency ultrasonography (USG), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have their unique roles in assessing a complex anatomical structure like the nail unit. Broadly speaking, USG and MRI help evaluate soft tissue components well; while, radiographs and CT scans help assess bony lesions better. In the second part of this review, salient radiological features of various nail disorders, as seen on these modalities are detailed.

Radiological Imaging in Nail Unit Disorders (Part I) - Modalities Used.

The nail unit is a unique skin appendage, capable of mounting only a limited number of reaction patterns to a variety of insults. This makes it difficult to diagnose many nail conditions based on clinical features alone. Thus, diagnostic modalities have an important role to play in nail disorders.