Introduction. Lichen nitidus (LN) is a rare, chronic, inflammatory dermatosis usually affecting children and young adults. Nails involvement is very rare. Until now, 7 cases of LN with nail involvement have been described.

Objective. To present a rare case of childhood lichen nitidus where trachyonychia was the main manifestation of the disease.

Case report. A 7-year-old, Caucasian, previously healthy boy presented thumbnail longitudinal ridges, distal splitting and subungual hyperkeratosis for 7 months. Numerous mycological and bacteriological examinations were negative. Dermatological examination also revealed erythematous lesions on the proximal nail fold as well as small skin-pigmented papules on the thumb. Similar papules grouped into patches were also observed on the upper limbs, trunk and forehead. Treatment was not recommended.

Conclusions. Lichen nitidus may rarely affect nails and should be considered as a possible cause of nail lesions in childhood.