Nails after infection

I had infections on the side of my left index finger and right middle finger (after doing some research, I'm pretty sure it was Paronychia).

The infections cleared up on their own, but a few days later I noticed part of both of my nails were turning white at the cuticle. Then the white part of the nails seemed to start to separate from the cuticle area and slough off. Now on both of my fingers, about half of the nail is missing and there is only nail bed. I have been looking for nail to start growing on the missing portions where the infection had been, but nothing appears to have grown and it has been three months!

The funny thing is that part of my nail seems healthy, the other half (the half where the infection was) is just absent and there is nothing growing from where the cuticle would be.

Is it possible that the disease could have killed part of the root? Is it possible nail growth might be absent for a few months because of the infection but come back? And other than going to the dermatologist are there any treatments or anything else I can do? I went to a couple of dermatologists and they seem to think the nail would grow back, but I am skeptical because I haven't seen any growth at all for about three months since the infection went away.

I also wanted to ask: If you lose a fingernail are there cosmetic solutions for prosthetic fingernails or surgical options for missing fingernails? I seem to have found something for toenails but can't find anything to replace missing fingernails.

Thanks for any help. I am very sad about this situation and hoping my nail grows back. :(

[Jasmina Jankicevic, MD, MSc, CCRP]

Welcome to the Dermatology Expert Forum!

We have high respect for educated self-initiatives in recognizing possible reasons for certain skin/nail/hair changes. However, visit to a dermatologist is necessary in your case.

If you had developed paronychia, as you thought, underlying bacterial, or fungal infection (even more likely) might have spread to your nails and affected their structure. Infection can be diagnosed and treated, and nails fully recuperated.

Another etiological scenario is nail matrix injury resulting in loss of nails. There are other factors to be investigated too.

Finally, to answer your query related to possibilities to reconstruct nail bed. If injured/damaged, nail bed can be reconstructed with grafts from other digits. Grafts may be taken from the nail bed of a toe to prevent further injury or deformity of the fingers.

Overall, don't be sad. We are certain that there is optimal solution for your nail concerns, you just your physician to dedicate some time to your problem and utilize appropriate diagnostic tools.


Wishing You Optimal Health,
Dr. Jasmina Jankicevic