Nail matrix arrest in the course of hand, foot and mouth disease

Onychomadesis describes complete nail shedding from the proximal portion; i t is consecutive to a nail matrix arrest and can affect both fingernails an d toenails. It is a rare disorder in children. Except for serious generalis ed diseases or inherited forms, most cases are considered to be idiopathic. Few reports in literature concern common triggering phenomena. We present four patients in whom the same benign viral condition in childhood appeared as a stressful event preceding onychomadesis. In each case, spontaneous co mplete healing of the nails was achieved within a few weeks. Conclusion: on ychomadesis and/or onycholysis is a newly recognised complication in the co urse of viral infections presenting clinically as hand, foot and mouth dise ase, and because of mild forms, is probably underestimated.