Nail is considered as a vestigial organ by some as it is a dead tissue, without realizing the varied functions it can subserve in human beings. It has evolved from the primitive role of grasping and clutching in lower animals to an organ of beautification in humans. Nail is also a mirror of internal diseases as it can depict several characteristic changes along with the skin. Examination of nail as a part of general cutaneous examination is imperative. Nail disorders may pose difficulties in diagnosis as they have limited ways of expression. Several conditions may present with similar nail changes and a single disease, for example, either psoriasis or lichen planus can present with several nail changes. Added to this, even the patients may not be concerned about the subtle changes that may be occurring in the nails, unless pointed out by the treating dermatologists or it is grossly deformed so as to cause embarrassment. Color photographs of clinical conditions, dermatoscopic images, line diagrams and other illustrations make this book easily readable and interesting. Hope this maiden venture would be adequately received by the dermatology community.
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