INTRODUCTION

A review of nail changes caused by nail service procedures, in particular the use of gel polishes, is presented. The results of a study of the efficacy and safety of use for onychodystrophy of various etiologies of lotions containing water-soluble chitosan and a vitamin-mineral complex as active components are presented.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The observational study included 50 patients aged 16 to 48 years (mean age 32±1.1 years) with onychodystrophies of various etiologies. Patients were observed for 6 months in 5 research centers — in Moscow, Yekaterinburg, Nalchik, Krasnoyarsk, Kirov. The protocol provided for 4 visits of patients: before and 28, 84 and 168 days after the start of treatment. The effectiveness of therapy was determined on the basis of assessing the dynamics of severity index of nail damage — OSI (Onychosis Severity Index) and the timing of resolution of clinical manifestations. During the study, patients used lotions containing water-soluble chitosan and a vitamin-mineral complex 2 times a day.

RESULTS

The fastest treatment effect was achieved in patients with mild onychodystrophy of hands; by the 28th day, their OSI decreased by 50%. Complete recovery was observed after 28 days of treatment in 15% of patients, after 84 days of treatment in 85%. In the group with moderate severity of onychodystrophy on the 84th day of treatment, complete growth of nail plates was found in 62.5% of patients, OSI decreased by more than 70%. On the 168th day of treatment, recovery and improvement with incomplete restoration of the nail plates were observed in all patients. Cases of poor tolerance of lotions, as well as any side effects from their use, were not noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the study, it can be stated that lotions containing water-soluble chitosan and a vitamin-mineral complex can be used as monotherapy for onychodystrophies of mild to moderate severity, in the form of combination therapy for severe forms of onychodystrophies.