ophy of the nail.#

Treatment consists in the removal of the redundant nail-tissue by means
of the knife or scissors; and, when dependent upon eczema or psoriasis,
the employment of remedies suitable for these diseases. When it is the
result of syphilis, the medication appropriate to this disease is to be
employed.

In paronychia the nail should be frequently trimmed and a pledget of
lint or cotton be interposed between the edge of the nail and the
adjacent soft parts; astringent powders and lotions may often be
employed with advantage; and in severe and persistent cases excision of
the nail, partial or complete, may be found necessary.

#Hypertrichosis.#
(_Synonyms:_ Hirsuties; Hypertrophy of the Hair; Superfluous Hair.)

#What is meant by hypertrichosis?#

Hypertrichosis is a term applied to excessive growth of hair, either as
regards region, extent, age or sex.

#Describe the several conditions met with.#

The unnatural hair growth may be slight, as, for instance, upon a naevus
(_naevus pilosus_); or it may be excessive, as in the so-called hairy
people (_homines pilosi_); or it may also appear on the face, arms and
other parts in females, resulting from a hypertrophy of the natural
lanugo hairs.

#State the causes of hypertrichosis.#

Hereditary influence is often a factor; the condition may also be
congenital.

If acquired, the tendency manifests itself usually toward middle life.
In women, it is not infrequently associated with diseases of the
utero-ovarian system; in many instances, however, there is no apparent
cause. Local irritation or stimulation has at times a causative
influence.

#How is hypertrichosis to be treated?#

For general hypertrichosis there is no remedy. Small hairy naevi may be
excised, or, as also in the larger hairy moles, the hairs may be removed
by electrolysis.

On the faces of women, if the hairs are coarse or large, electrolysis
constitutes the only satisfactory method; if the hairs are small and
lanugo-like, the operation is not to be advised. It is somewhat painful,
but never unbearable. In the past several years the _x_-ray has been
advocated by several writers, but it requires usually numerous exposures
pushed to the point of producing erythema; it is not without risk, and
the hairs are said to return in some months.

#What temporary methods are usually resorted to for the removal of
superfluous hair?#

Shaving, extract