Pitted nails

Nail changes, such as pitting, may be an early sign of PsA. Pitted nails have a bumpy or dented appearance. Nail pitting is more common in people with PsA and those over the age of 40. Pitted nails can cause the following symptoms:

• depressions in the fingernails or toenails
• changes in nail color (discoloration)
• changes to nail shape (deformation)
• thickening of the nails

Psoriatic changes in the nails are a predictor of joint disease and arthritis, according to research. Psoriasis can also affect the nails, giving them the appearance of a fungal infection. Nail changes, also known as nail psoriasis, affect approximately 50% of people with psoriasis and approximately 80% of people with PsA.