# Subungual Verruca Vulgaris Mimicking Onychomycosis

## TL;DR

A 60-year-old woman's nail issue was initially thought to be a fungal infection but was later found to be a wart, showing the need for careful diagnosis.

## Contribution

The paper presents a case where subungual verruca vulgaris was misdiagnosed as onychomycosis, emphasizing diagnostic challenges.

## Key findings

- A 60-year-old female was misdiagnosed with onychodystrophy but later found to have subungual verruca vulgaris.
- Nail avulsion and biopsy were necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
- The case highlights the difficulty in distinguishing between fungal and nonfungal nail conditions.

## Abstract

Nail abnormalities, or onychodystrophy, can be caused by various pathologies, including fungal and nonfungal infections. These can result in difficulties with nail trimming, pain, and social discomfort that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. Even experienced physicians may find it challenging to diagnose due to the lack of specificity in these changes. We present the case of a 60-year-old female who was initially diagnosed with onychodystrophy but was later found to have subungual verruca vulgaris after a nail avulsion and biopsy. This case highlights the importance of thorough diagnostic procedures and considering a broad range of differential diagnoses. We also discuss the challenges of treating subungual warts and the need for a precise therapeutic approach to ensure the best possible outcomes.