Multiple Nails, One Digit: Understanding Polymeronychia
Having one finger or toenail with two or more nails… The nail oddity you didn’t know existed! It sounds strange but for some people this is a condition known as Polymeronychia is usually a result of trauma.
It is the presence of multiple nail plates growing simultaneously in the same digit. They grow on top of each other.
Clinical Appearance of Polymeronychia
- Nail appears thick, yellowish, or dystrophic
- You may see a stacked or double nail plate appearance
- Often associated with proximal swelling, pain and granulation tissue
- More common in toenails, especially the hallux (big toe)
It is most commonly observed in conditions like Retronychia where successive nail plates become stacked or embedded rather than being naturally shed and replaced.
In a normal nail growth cycle, as the new nail forms at the matrix, it pushes the old nail plate forward until it naturally detaches. In polymeronychia, this natural shedding doesn’t occur. Instead:
- The new nail plate fails to displace the previous one
- Multiple nail plates are laid down on top of or beneath each other
- This leads to pressure, inflammation and deformation
Chronic Retronychia often looks similar to congenital great toenail malalignment – a lateral deviation of the distal phalanx.
Some other related conditions include Onychomadesis where sudden shedding of the nail can be followed by layered regrowth, and also trauma-induced nail dystrophy especially repeated pressure (tight shoes, sports)…
We are independent prescribers able to prescribe any medication from the BNF relevant to the lower limb, foot and ankle.
Are you suffering from any hand or foot condition? At The Chelsea Clinic, we can help. One of our podiatrists can assist and then recommend what treatments are best to get you back on track. Podiatrist South Kensington
Schedule an appointment here or you may call us at +44 (0) 207 101 4000.
We hope you have a feetastic day!
-The Chelsea Clinic and Team
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