Nail changes: Difference between revisions

Jump to navigation Jump to search
VisualWikitext
m (Bot: Removing from Primary care)
 
(112 intermediate revisions by 4 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
__NOTOC__
__NOTOC__
{{DiseaseDisorder infobox |
'''For patient information, click [[Nail changes (patient information)|here]]'''
  Name          = Nail disease |
  ICD10          = {{ICD10|L|60||l|60}} |
  ICD9          = {{ICD9|703}} |
  ICDO          = |
  Image          = |
  Caption        = |
  OMIM          = |
  MedlinePlus    = 003247 |
  eMedicineSubj  = |
  eMedicineTopic = |
  DiseasesDB    = 23092 |}}
{{CMG}}; '''Associate Editor-In-Chief:''' {{CZ}}


{{SK}} nail abnormality; nail disorders; nail signs
{{CMG}}; '''Associate Editor-In-Chief:''' {{CZ}}; {{MJM}}
 
{{SK}} Nail abnormality; nail disorders; nail signs


==Overview==
==Overview==
'''Nail diseases''' are distinct from diseases of the skin. Although [[nail (anatomy)|nail]]s are a skin appendage, they have their own signs and symptoms which may relate to other medical conditions. Nail conditions that show signs of [[infection]] or [[inflammation]] require medical assistance and cannot be treated at a beauty parlor. [[Deformity]] or [[disease]] of the nails may be referred to as '''onychosis'''.
'''Nail diseases''' are distinct from diseases of the skin. Although [[nail (anatomy)|nail]]s are a skin appendage, they have their own signs and symptoms which may relate to other medical conditions. Nail conditions that show signs of [[infection]] or [[inflammation]] require medical assistance and cannot be treated at a beauty parlor. [[Deformity]] or [[disease]] of the nails may be referred to as '''onychosis'''.
There are many examples of how nail changes can play a role in helping to diagnose certain conditions. For example, short, small nail beds, and redness are associated with various [[heart disease|heart conditions]].


==Classification Scheme==
==Classification Scheme==
[http://www.peir.net Some images shown below are courtesy of Professor Peter Anderson DVM PhD and published with permission © PEIR, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Pathology]
[[Image:Subungual_melanoma.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Acral lentiginous melanoma]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Acral lentiginous melanoma is a kind of skin [[melanoma]], and it is also known as subungual melanoma.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Acral lentiginous melanoma is a kind of skin cancer, and it is also know as a skin cancer that manifests under the nail.{{clr}}
----


[[Image:acrocyanosis.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Acrocyanosis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Acrocyanosis is a persistent blue or cyanotic discoloration of the digits. <br>'''Patient definition:''' Acrocyanosis is a blue discoloration ([[cyanosis]]) of the fingers and the fingernails. {{clr}}
[[Image:acrocyanosis.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Acrocyanosis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Acrocyanosis is a persistent blue or cyanotic discoloration of the digits. <br>'''Patient definition:''' Acrocyanosis is a blue discoloration ([[cyanosis]]) of the fingers and the fingernails. {{clr}}
----
[[Image:Secondary_aterosclerotic_changes.Nail.jpg‎|left|150x200px]][[Atherosclerosis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Atherosclerosis is a [[disease]] affecting [[arterial]] [[blood vessels]] and it can cause changes to the nail beds.<br> '''Patient definition:''' Atherosclerosis is a disease affecting arterial blood vessels and it can cause changes to the nail beds.{{clr}}
----
----


Line 28: Line 27:


[[Image:Bowens_carcinoma.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Bowen's disease]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Bowen's disease is a sunlight induced skin disease considered either as an early stage or intraepidermal form of [[squamous cell carcinoma]].<br>'''Patient definition:''' Bowen's disease is a sunlight induced skin disease considered an early stage for of skin cancer.{{clr}}
[[Image:Bowens_carcinoma.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Bowen's disease]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Bowen's disease is a sunlight induced skin disease considered either as an early stage or intraepidermal form of [[squamous cell carcinoma]].<br>'''Patient definition:''' Bowen's disease is a sunlight induced skin disease considered an early stage for of skin cancer.{{clr}}
----
[[Image:Brittle nails.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Brittle nails]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Brittle nails is a condition where the nails are fragile and break frequently.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Brittle nails is a condition where the nails are fragile and break frequently.{{clr}}
----
----


Line 34: Line 36:


[[Image:Half and half.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Half and half nails]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Half and half nails refer to a change in the appearance of the nails due to internal diseases and nutritional deficits.<br>'''Patient definition''' Half and half nails refer to a change in the appearance of the nails due to internal diseases and nutritional deficits.{{clr}}
[[Image:Half and half.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Half and half nails]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Half and half nails refer to a change in the appearance of the nails due to internal diseases and nutritional deficits.<br>'''Patient definition''' Half and half nails refer to a change in the appearance of the nails due to internal diseases and nutritional deficits.{{clr}}
----
[[Image:Whitlow.Herpetic disease.Nail.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Herpes simplex]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Herpes simplex is a [[viral disease]] caused by [[Herpes simplex viruses]].<br>'''Patient definition:''' Herpes simplex is a [[viral disease]] caused by [[Herpes simplex viruses]].{{clr}}
----
[[Image:Trophic changes.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Ischemia]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Ischemia is a restriction in blood supply, generally due to factors in the [[blood vessels]], which result in damage or dysfunction of tissue.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Ischemia is a restriction in blood supply, generally due to factors in the blood vessels, which result in damage or dysfunction of tissue.{{clr}}
----
----


Line 42: Line 50:
----
----


[[Image:Lichen planus.Nail.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Lichen planus]] nail changes<br>'''Doctor definition:'''Lichen planus is an [[inflammatory disease]] that affects the [[skin]] and the [[oral mucosa]].<br>'''Patient definition:''' Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that affects the skin and the mouth.{{clr}}
[[Image:Lichen planus.Nail.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Lichen planus]] nail changes<br> '''Doctor definition:''' Lichen planus is an [[inflammatory disease]] that affects the [[skin]] and the [[oral mucosa]].<br>'''Patient definition:''' Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that affects the skin and the mouth.{{clr}}
----
----


Line 48: Line 56:
----
----


[[Image:Muehrcke's lines.JPG|left|150x200px]][[Muehrcke's lines]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Muehrcke's lines are white lines across the nail associated with [[hypoalbuminemia]].<br>'''Patient definition:''' Muehrcke's lines are white lines across the nail associated with low levels of the most abundant blood protein ([[albumin]]).{{clr}}
[[Image:Brown banding.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Melanonychia]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Melanonychia is a black or brown pigmentation of the normal nail plate that can present as horizontal or longitudinal bands.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Melanonychia is a black or brown pigmentation of the normal nail plate that can present as horizontal or longitudinal bands.{{clr}}
----
----


[[Image:copyleft_request.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Onychomadesis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Onychomadesis is a periodic [[idiopathic]] shedding of the nails beginning at its [[proximal]] end.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Onychomadesis is a periodic, spontaneous shedding of the nails beginning at the end closer to the finger.{{clr}}
[[Image:Muehrcke's lines.JPG|left|150x200px]][[Muehrcke's lines]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Muehrcke's lines are white lines across the nail associated with [[hypoalbuminemia]].<br>'''Patient definition:''' Muehrcke's lines are white lines across the nail associated with low levels of the most abundant blood protein ([[albumin]]).{{clr}}
----
----


Line 67: Line 75:


[[Image:Onycholysis.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Onycholysis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Onycholysis is a loosening of the exposed portion of the nail from the nail bed, usually beginning at the free edge and continuing to the [[lunula]].<br> '''Patient definition:''' Onycholysis is a loosening of the exposed portion of the nail from the nail bed, usually beginning at the free edge and continuing to the crescent-shaped whitish area of the bed of a fingernail or toenail.{{clr}}
[[Image:Onycholysis.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Onycholysis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Onycholysis is a loosening of the exposed portion of the nail from the nail bed, usually beginning at the free edge and continuing to the [[lunula]].<br> '''Patient definition:''' Onycholysis is a loosening of the exposed portion of the nail from the nail bed, usually beginning at the free edge and continuing to the crescent-shaped whitish area of the bed of a fingernail or toenail.{{clr}}
----
[[Image:copyleft_request.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Onychomadesis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Onychomadesis is a periodic [[idiopathic]] shedding of the nails beginning at its [[proximal]] end.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Onychomadesis is a periodic, spontaneous shedding of the nails beginning at the end closer to the finger.{{clr}}
----
----


Line 72: Line 83:
----
----


[[Image:Lower_paronychia2.jpg‎‎|left|150x200px]][[Paronychia]]<br> '''Doctor defintion:''' Paronychia is an often tender bacterial or fungal infection where the nail and skin meet at the side or the base of a finger or toenail.<br> '''Patient definition:''' Paronychia is an often tender infection where the nail and skin meet at the side or the base of a finger or toenail.<br>{{clr}}
[[Image:Copyleft_request.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Onychophosis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Onychophosis is a localized or diffuse hyperkeratotic tissue that develops on the lateral or proximal nailfolds, within the space between the nailfolds and the nail plate.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Onychophosis is a localized or diffuse excess of the nail proteins that develops on the side of the nail closer to the finger. This forms specifically in the space between the nail folds and nail plate.{{clr}}
----
----


[[Image:Psoriasis fingernail.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Psoriatic nails]]<br> '''Doctor definition:''' Psoriatic nails is a common nail disease associated with people who have [[psoriasis]].<br> '''Patient definition:''' Psoriatic nails is a common nail disease associated with people who have a scaly skin rash (psoriasis).{{clr}}
[[Image:Copyleft_request.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Onychoptosis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Onychoptosis is the periodic shedding of the nails.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Onychoptosis is the periodic shedding of the nails.{{clr}}
----
----


[[Image:Splinter_hemorrhage.jpg‎|left|150x200px]][[Splinter hemorrhage]]<br> '''Doctor defintion:''' Splinter hemorrhages are tiny lines that run vertically under the nails.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Splinter hemorrhages are tiny lines that run vertically under the nails.{{clr}}
[[Image:Copyleft_request.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Pachyonychia]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Pachyonychia is an autosomal dominant skin disorder.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Pachyonychia is a skin disorder that is expressed when the specific gene is present.{{clr}}
----
----


[[Image:HEMORRHAGESUBUNG1.JPG‎|left|150x200px]][[Subungual hematoma]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' A subungal hematoma is a hematoma underneath a toenail or fingernail which often results from a traumatic injury such as slamming a finger in a door.<br>'''Patient definition:''' A subungal hematoma is a collection of blood underneath a toenail or fingernail which often results from a traumatic injury such as slamming a finger in a door.{{clr}}
[[Image:Lower_paronychia2.jpg‎‎|left|150x200px]][[Paronychia]]<br> '''Doctor defintion:''' Paronychia is an often tender bacterial or fungal infection where the nail and skin meet at the side or the base of a finger or toenail.<br> '''Patient definition:''' Paronychia is an often tender infection where the nail and skin meet at the side or the base of a finger or toenail.<br>{{clr}}
----
----


[[Image:Yellow nail syndrome.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Yellow nail syndrome]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Yellow nail syndrome is characterized by yellow nails that lack a cuticle, grow slowly, and are loose or detached ([[onycholysis]]).<br> '''Patient definition:''' Yellow nail syndrome is characterized by yellow nails that lack a cuticle, grow slowly, and are loose or detached (onycholysis).{{clr}}
[[Image:Copyleft_request.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Pitted nails]]<br> '''Doctor definition:''' Pitted nails are pinpoint depressions in the nails.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Pitted nails are pinpoint depressions in the nails.{{clr}}
----
----


[[Image:Copyleft_request.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Platonychia]]<br> '''Doctor definition:''' Platonychia is characterized by an abnormally flat and broad nail.<br> '''Patient definition:''' Platonychia is characterized by an abnormally flat and broad nail.{{clr}}
----


===[[Nail discoloration]]===
[[Image:Psoriasis fingernail.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Psoriatic nails]]<br> '''Doctor definition:''' Psoriatic nails is a common nail disease associated with people who have [[psoriasis]].<br> '''Patient definition:''' Psoriatic nails is a common nail disease associated with people who have a scaly skin rash (psoriasis).{{clr}}
----


===[[Nail pitting]]===
[[Image:Scleroderma nail.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Scleroderma]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Scleroderma is a rare, [[chronic disease]] characterized by  excessive deposits of [[collagen]] in the [[skin]] or other organs.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Scleroderma is a rare, long lasting disease characterized by excessive deposits of a structural protein in the skin or other organs.{{clr}}
----


===[[Onychorrhexis]]===
[[Image:Skin_carcinoma.Nail.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Skin cancer]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Skin cancer is a [[malignant]] growth on the [[skin]] which can have many causes.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Skin cancer is invasive, spreading cancer on the skin which can have many causes.{{clr}}
----


===[[Pachyonychia]]===
[[Image:Splinter_hemorrhage.jpg‎|left|150x200px]][[Splinter hemorrhage]]<br> '''Doctor defintion:''' Splinter hemorrhages are tiny lines that run vertically under the nails.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Splinter hemorrhages are tiny lines that run vertically under the nails.{{clr}}
----


===[[Platonychia]]===
[[Image:HEMORRHAGESUBUNG1.JPG‎|left|150x200px]][[Subungual hematoma]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' A subungal hematoma is a hematoma underneath a toenail or fingernail which often results from a traumatic injury such as slamming a finger in a door.<br>'''Patient definition:''' A subungal hematoma is a collection of blood underneath a toenail or fingernail which often results from a traumatic injury such as slamming a finger in a door.{{clr}}
----


===[[Ridged nails]]===
[[Image:Copyleft_request.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Terry's nails]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Terry's nails is a physical finding in which fingernails and/or toenails appear white with a characteristic "ground glass" appearance, with no [[lunula]].<br>'''Patient definition:''' Terry's nails is a physical finding in which fingernails and/or toenails appear white with a characteristic "ground glass" appearance, with no white crescent shaped area at the bottom of the nail.{{clr}}
----


===[[Subungual hyperkeratosis]]===
[[Image:Trauma.Nail.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Trauma]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Trauma refers to a physical injury.<br>'''Patient definition:''' Trauma refers to a physical injury.{{clr}}
----


<div align="left">
[[Image:Subungual_fibroma.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Tuberous sclerosis]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Tuberous sclerosis is a rare, multi-system [[genetic disorder|genetic disease]] that causes benign tumors to grow in the [[brain]] and on other vital organs such as the [[kidney]]s, [[heart]], [[eye]]s, [[lung]]s, and [[skin]].<br> '''Patient definition:''' [[Tuberous sclerosis]] is a rare, multi-system [[genetic disorder|genetic disease]] that causes benign tumors to grow in the [[brain]] and on other vital organs such as the [[kidney]]s, [[heart]], [[eye]]s, [[lung]]s, and [[skin]].{{clr}}
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
----
Image:Fingernail label.jpg|A normal nail
Image:Fingernails1.JPG|Normal fingernails
</gallery>
</div>


[[Image:Secondary to warts.Nail.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Wart]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' A wart is generally a small, rough [[tumor]], typically on hands and feet, that can resemble a cauliflower or a solid [[blister]].<br>'''Patient definition:''' A wart is generally a small, rough tumor, typically on hands and feet, that can resemble a cauliflower or a solid blister.{{clr}}
----


<div align="left">
[[Image:Yellow nail syndrome.jpg|left|150x200px]][[Yellow nail syndrome]]<br>'''Doctor definition:''' Yellow nail syndrome is characterized by yellow nails that lack a cuticle, grow slowly, and are loose or detached ([[onycholysis]]).<br> '''Patient definition:''' Yellow nail syndrome is characterized by yellow nails that lack a cuticle, grow slowly, and are loose or detached (onycholysis).{{clr}}
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
----
Image:Toes.jpg|Normal toenails
</gallery>
</div>
 
==Diseases==
*''Onychophosis'' is a growth of horny [[epithelium]] in the nail.
*''Onychoptosis'' is the periodic shedding of one or more nails, in whole or part. This condition may follow certain diseases such as [[syphilis]], or can result from [[fever]], [[Physical trauma|trauma]], systemic upsets or adverse reaction to drugs.
 
==Associated Conditions with Nail Changes==
 
Nail inspection can give a great deal of information about the internal working of the body as well, and like tongue or [[Iris (anatomy)|iris]] inspection, has a long history of diagnostic use in traditional medical practices such as [[Chinese medicine]].  
 
===Pliability:===
*Brittleness is associated with iron deficiency, thyroid problems,<ref>http://www.bhcs.com/healthinformation/baylorhealthmagazine/2005/nov/AS_thyroid.htm</ref> impaired kidney function, circulation problems, and biotin deficiency<ref name="scratch" />
*Splitting and fraying are associated with psoriasis and deficiencies of folic acid, protein and Vitamin C.
*Unusual thickness is associated with circulation problems.
*Thinning nails and itchy skin are associated with [[lichen planus]]<ref name="jewel">Judith Cobb, [http://www.nspforum.com/faq/index.cgi?read=929 Fingernails, Jewels or Tools]? ''Nature's Field'' - Nail diagnosis]</ref>.
 
===Shape and texture:===


*Flatness can indicate a B12 vitamin deficiency<ref name="jewel" /> or [[Raynaud's disease]]<ref name="tool">Mariann Cade, [http://www.nspforum.com/faq/bbs.cgi?read=1191 Fingernails - Diagnostic Tool]</ref>
*Ridges across the nail indicate stress.
*Ridges along the nail are associated with arthritis<ref name="scratch" />.
*Grooves  along the nail are associated with kidney disorders, aging, and iron deficiency<ref name="scratch" />.
*Beading is associated with [[rheumatoid arthritis]]<ref name="scratch" />.
*Nails that resemble hammered brass are associated with (or portend) [[hair loss]]<ref name="jewel" />.
*Short small beds are associated with heart disease.


===Coloration of the nail bed:===
*White lines across the nail are associated with heart disease, liver disease, or a history of a recent high fever<ref name="jewel" />.
*[[Terry's nails|Opaque white nails with a dark band at the fingertip]] are associated with cancer, cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, diabetes and aging<ref name="jewel" />.
*Paleness or whitening is associated with liver or kidney disease and anemia<ref name="jewel" />.
*Yellowing of the nail bed is associated with chronic bronchitis, lymphatic problems, diabetes, and liver disorders.
*Brown or copper nail beds are associated with arsenic or copper poisoning, and [[Onychomycosis|local fungal infection]].
*Grey nail beds are associated with [[arthritis]], [[edema]], [[malnutrition]], post-[[Surgery|operative]] effects, [[glaucoma]] and [[cardio]]-[[pulmonary]] disease.
*Redness is associated with heart conditions.
*Dark nails are associated with B12 deficiency.
*Stains of the nail plate (not the nail bed) are associated with nail polish<ref name="scratch" />, smoking, and henna use.
===Markings:===
*Pink and white nails are associated with kidney disease<ref name="jewel" />.
*Red skin at the base of the nail is associated with connective tissue disorders<ref name="jewel" />.
*Blue lunulae are associated with silver poisoning or lung disorder<ref name="jewel" />.
*Blue nail beds are (much like blue skin) associated with poor oxygenation of the blood ([[asthma]], [[emphysema]], etc)<ref name="jewel" />.
*[[Leukonychia|Small white patches]] are associated with zinc or calcium deficiency or malabsorption, parasites, or local injury<ref name="tool" />.
*Receded lunulae (fewer than 8) are associated with poor circulation<ref name="tool" />, shallow breathing habits or thyroid mysfunction<ref name="jewel" />.
*Large lunulae (more than 25% of the thumb nail) are associated with high blood pressure.
== Diagnosis ==
=== History and Symptoms ===
* History of [[psoriasis]]
* Family history
* Occupational history
* Hobbies
=== Laboratory Studies ===
* Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS)
* Fungal cultures
* Bacterial cultures
=== Other Diagnostic Studies ===
* [[Nail matrix]] [[biopsy]]
* Possible dermatology referral
== Differential Diagnosis of Causes of Nail changes==
=== Blue discoloration ===
*[[Argyria]]
*[[Dapsone|DADPS]]
=== Brown-black discoloration ===
*[[Acral lentiginous melanoma]]
*[[Alcaptonuria]]
*[[Hematoma]]
*[[Mole]]s
*[[Ochronosis]]
=== Green-black discoloration ===
*[[infection]] with [[pseudomonas aeruginosa]]
=== Pitted Nails ===
''Pinpoint depressions in the nails''
*[[Alopecia areata]]
*[[Lichen|Lichen ruber]]
*[[Lupus erythematosus]]
*[[Neurodermatitis]]
*[[Psoriasis]]
*[[Rheumatic Fever]]
=== Yellow nails ===
''Yellow-greenish discoloration of the nails (some or all) with subsequent [[onycholysis]]''
*[[Congenital]] [[hypoplasia]] / [[dysplasia]] of peripheral [[lymph vessel]]s
*Diseases of the [[bronchial tube]]s
*Diseases of the [[paranasal sinus]]es
*Smoker's fingers
==Pathological Findings==
[http://www.peir.net Images shown below are courtesy of Professor Peter Anderson DVM PhD and published with permission © PEIR, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Pathology]
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Trophic changes.jpg|Trophic Changes: Gross natural color distorted nails and thick skin typical of chronic ischemia
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Halfandhalf.jpg|[[Renal failure]], chronic with nail changes; half and half nails. Left hand more typical. Unusual asymmetrical
image:Hydroxyurea nails.jpg|[[Hydroxyurea]] Nails; Nail changes associated with Hydroxyurea therapy in a patient with essential thrombocythemia.
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Brown banding.jpg|Nail disease, brown banding
image:Secondary to psoriasis.jpg|Nail disease, secondary to [[psoriasis]]
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Paronychia candida.jpg|[[Paronychia]] due to [[Candida]]; nail diseases
image:White banding.jpg|Nail disease; white banding
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Scleroderma nail.jpg|Nail changes in [[Scleroderma]]. Posterior nail fold.
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Subungual melanoma.jpg|This is a subungual radial growth phase of acral-lentiginous type with two amelanotic vertical growth phase tumor nodules. Radial growth phase is just beginning to grow onto the cuticle of the nail, displaying a subtle example of "Hutchinson's sign."
image:Subungual fibroma.jpg|[[Tuberous sclerosis]]; Subungual fibroma; Beneath the Left Index Nail
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Periungual fibroma.jpg|[[Tuberous sclerosis]], Periungual Fibroma; Lateral Side of Left Great Toe Nail
image:Trauma.Nail.jpg|Traumatic nail changes
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Secondary aterosclerotic changes.Nail.jpg|Secondary atherosclerosis caused nail disorders.
image:Onykomycosis.Nail.jpg|Onychomycosis
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Splitting.Nail.jpg|Splitting
image:Secondary to warts.Nail.jpg|Nail changes secondary to wart.
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Onycholysis.Nail.jpg|Onycholysis
image:Whitlow.Herpetic disease.Nail.jpg|Herpes simplex caused nail disease.
</gallery>
</div>
<div align="left">
<gallery heights="175" widths="175">
image:Lichen planus.Nail.jpg|Nail changes is Lichen planus
image:Skin carcinoma.Nail.jpg|Skin carcinoma
</gallery>
</div>
== Treatment ==
=== Acute Pharmacotherapies ===
* Systemic antifungals
* Intralesional steroids
* Topical paint-on ciclopirox
* Systemic antipsoriatic therapies
== References ==
{{Reflist|2}}






{{Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue}}
{{Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue}}
{{WikiDoc Help Menu}}
{{WikiDoc Sources}}


[[Category:Symptoms]]
[[Category:Signs and symptoms]]
[[Category:Signs and symptoms]]
[[Category:Medical signs]]
[[Category:Dermatology]]
[[Category:Dermatology]]
[[Category:Primary care]]
[[Category:Physical examination]]
[[Category:Physical examination]]
{{WikiDoc Help Menu}}
{{WikiDoc Sources}}

Latest revision as of 22:52, 29 July 2020

For patient information, click here

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Cafer Zorkun, M.D., Ph.D. [2]; Michael Maddaleni, B.S.

Synonyms and keywords: Nail abnormality; nail disorders; nail signs

Overview

Nail diseases are distinct from diseases of the skin. Although nails are a skin appendage, they have their own signs and symptoms which may relate to other medical conditions. Nail conditions that show signs of infection or inflammation require medical assistance and cannot be treated at a beauty parlor. Deformity or disease of the nails may be referred to as onychosis.

There are many examples of how nail changes can play a role in helping to diagnose certain conditions. For example, short, small nail beds, and redness are associated with various heart conditions.

Classification Scheme

Some images shown below are courtesy of Professor Peter Anderson DVM PhD and published with permission © PEIR, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of Pathology

Acral lentiginous melanoma
Doctor definition: Acral lentiginous melanoma is a kind of skin melanoma, and it is also known as subungual melanoma.
Patient definition: Acral lentiginous melanoma is a kind of skin cancer, and it is also know as a skin cancer that manifests under the nail.

Acrocyanosis
Doctor definition: Acrocyanosis is a persistent blue or cyanotic discoloration of the digits.
Patient definition: Acrocyanosis is a blue discoloration (cyanosis) of the fingers and the fingernails.

Atherosclerosis
Doctor definition: Atherosclerosis is a disease affecting arterial blood vessels and it can cause changes to the nail beds.
Patient definition: Atherosclerosis is a disease affecting arterial blood vessels and it can cause changes to the nail beds.

Beau's lines
Doctor definition: Beau's lines are deep grooved lines that run from side to side on the fingernail.
Patient definition: Beau's lines are deep grooved lines that run from side to side on the fingernail.

Bowen's disease
Doctor definition: Bowen's disease is a sunlight induced skin disease considered either as an early stage or intraepidermal form of squamous cell carcinoma.
Patient definition: Bowen's disease is a sunlight induced skin disease considered an early stage for of skin cancer.

Brittle nails
Doctor definition: Brittle nails is a condition where the nails are fragile and break frequently.
Patient definition: Brittle nails is a condition where the nails are fragile and break frequently.

Digital clubbing
Doctor definition: Digital clubbing is a deformity of the fingers and fingernails that is associated with a number of diseases, mostly of the heart and lungs.
Patient definition: Digital clubbing is a deformity of the fingers and fingernails that is associated with a number of diseases, mostly of the heart and lungs.

Half and half nails
Doctor definition: Half and half nails refer to a change in the appearance of the nails due to internal diseases and nutritional deficits.
Patient definition Half and half nails refer to a change in the appearance of the nails due to internal diseases and nutritional deficits.

Herpes simplex
Doctor definition: Herpes simplex is a viral disease caused by Herpes simplex viruses.
Patient definition: Herpes simplex is a viral disease caused by Herpes simplex viruses.

Ischemia
Doctor definition: Ischemia is a restriction in blood supply, generally due to factors in the blood vessels, which result in damage or dysfunction of tissue.
Patient definition: Ischemia is a restriction in blood supply, generally due to factors in the blood vessels, which result in damage or dysfunction of tissue.

Koilonychia
Doctor definition: Koilonychia refers to nails (usually of the hand) which have lost their convexity, becoming flat or even concave in shape.
Patient defintion: Koilonychia literally means spoon nails. It is when your nails become flat or sunken in.

Leukonychia
Doctor definition: Leukonychia is a medical term for white discoloration appearing on nails.
Patient defintion: Leukonychia is a medical term for white discoloration appearing on nails.

Lichen planus nail changes
Doctor definition: Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that affects the skin and the oral mucosa.
Patient definition: Lichen planus is an inflammatory disease that affects the skin and the mouth.

Mee's lines
Doctor definition: Mees' lines are lines of discoloration across the nails of the fingers and toes after an episode of poisoning with arsenic or thallium or other heavy metals.
Patient definition: Mees' lines are lines of discoloration across the nails of the fingers and toes after an episode of poisoning with arsenic or thallium or other heavy metals.

Melanonychia
Doctor definition: Melanonychia is a black or brown pigmentation of the normal nail plate that can present as horizontal or longitudinal bands.
Patient definition: Melanonychia is a black or brown pigmentation of the normal nail plate that can present as horizontal or longitudinal bands.

Muehrcke's lines
Doctor definition: Muehrcke's lines are white lines across the nail associated with hypoalbuminemia.
Patient definition: Muehrcke's lines are white lines across the nail associated with low levels of the most abundant blood protein (albumin).

Onychia
Doctor definition: Onychia is an inflammation of the matrix of the nail with formation of pus and shedding of the nail.
Patient definition: Onychia is an inflammation of the surrounding tissue (matrix) of the nail with formation of pus and shedding of the nail.

Onychocryptosis
Doctor definition: Onychocryptosis is a painful condition in which the nail grows or cuts into one or both sides of the nail bed.
Patient defintion: Onychocryptosis is a painful condition in which the nail grows or cuts into one or both sides of the nail bed.

Onychodystrophy
Doctor definition: Onychodystrophy is a deformation of the nails that can result from cancer chemotherapy which includes bleomycin, hydroxyurea, or 5-fluorouracil.
Patient definition: Onychodystrophy is a deformation of the nails that can result from certain cancer drugs (bleomycin, hydroxyurea, or 5-fluorouracil).

Onychogryphosis
Doctor definition: Onychogryposis, also called "ram's-horn nail", is a thickening and increase in curvature of the nail.
Patient definition: Onychogryposis, also called "ram's-horn nail", is a thickening and increase in curvature of the nail.

Onycholysis
Doctor definition: Onycholysis is a loosening of the exposed portion of the nail from the nail bed, usually beginning at the free edge and continuing to the lunula.
Patient definition: Onycholysis is a loosening of the exposed portion of the nail from the nail bed, usually beginning at the free edge and continuing to the crescent-shaped whitish area of the bed of a fingernail or toenail.

Onychomadesis
Doctor definition: Onychomadesis is a periodic idiopathic shedding of the nails beginning at its proximal end.
Patient definition: Onychomadesis is a periodic, spontaneous shedding of the nails beginning at the end closer to the finger.

Onychomycosis
Doctor definition: Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails.
Patient definition: Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails.

Onychophosis
Doctor definition: Onychophosis is a localized or diffuse hyperkeratotic tissue that develops on the lateral or proximal nailfolds, within the space between the nailfolds and the nail plate.
Patient definition: Onychophosis is a localized or diffuse excess of the nail proteins that develops on the side of the nail closer to the finger. This forms specifically in the space between the nail folds and nail plate.

Onychoptosis
Doctor definition: Onychoptosis is the periodic shedding of the nails.
Patient definition: Onychoptosis is the periodic shedding of the nails.

Pachyonychia
Doctor definition: Pachyonychia is an autosomal dominant skin disorder.
Patient definition: Pachyonychia is a skin disorder that is expressed when the specific gene is present.

Paronychia
Doctor defintion: Paronychia is an often tender bacterial or fungal infection where the nail and skin meet at the side or the base of a finger or toenail.
Patient definition: Paronychia is an often tender infection where the nail and skin meet at the side or the base of a finger or toenail.

Pitted nails
Doctor definition: Pitted nails are pinpoint depressions in the nails.
Patient definition: Pitted nails are pinpoint depressions in the nails.

Platonychia
Doctor definition: Platonychia is characterized by an abnormally flat and broad nail.
Patient definition: Platonychia is characterized by an abnormally flat and broad nail.

Psoriatic nails
Doctor definition: Psoriatic nails is a common nail disease associated with people who have psoriasis.
Patient definition: Psoriatic nails is a common nail disease associated with people who have a scaly skin rash (psoriasis).

Scleroderma
Doctor definition: Scleroderma is a rare, chronic disease characterized by excessive deposits of collagen in the skin or other organs.
Patient definition: Scleroderma is a rare, long lasting disease characterized by excessive deposits of a structural protein in the skin or other organs.

Skin cancer
Doctor definition: Skin cancer is a malignant growth on the skin which can have many causes.
Patient definition: Skin cancer is invasive, spreading cancer on the skin which can have many causes.

Splinter hemorrhage
Doctor defintion: Splinter hemorrhages are tiny lines that run vertically under the nails.
Patient definition: Splinter hemorrhages are tiny lines that run vertically under the nails.

Subungual hematoma
Doctor definition: A subungal hematoma is a hematoma underneath a toenail or fingernail which often results from a traumatic injury such as slamming a finger in a door.
Patient definition: A subungal hematoma is a collection of blood underneath a toenail or fingernail which often results from a traumatic injury such as slamming a finger in a door.

Terry's nails
Doctor definition: Terry's nails is a physical finding in which fingernails and/or toenails appear white with a characteristic "ground glass" appearance, with no lunula.
Patient definition: Terry's nails is a physical finding in which fingernails and/or toenails appear white with a characteristic "ground glass" appearance, with no white crescent shaped area at the bottom of the nail.

Trauma
Doctor definition: Trauma refers to a physical injury.
Patient definition: Trauma refers to a physical injury.

Tuberous sclerosis
Doctor definition: Tuberous sclerosis is a rare, multi-system genetic disease that causes benign tumors to grow in the brain and on other vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, eyes, lungs, and skin.
Patient definition: Tuberous sclerosis is a rare, multi-system genetic disease that causes benign tumors to grow in the brain and on other vital organs such as the kidneys, heart, eyes, lungs, and skin.

Wart
Doctor definition: A wart is generally a small, rough tumor, typically on hands and feet, that can resemble a cauliflower or a solid blister.
Patient definition: A wart is generally a small, rough tumor, typically on hands and feet, that can resemble a cauliflower or a solid blister.

Yellow nail syndrome
Doctor definition: Yellow nail syndrome is characterized by yellow nails that lack a cuticle, grow slowly, and are loose or detached (onycholysis).
Patient definition: Yellow nail syndrome is characterized by yellow nails that lack a cuticle, grow slowly, and are loose or detached (onycholysis).




Template:WikiDoc Sources

Retrieved from "https://www.wikidoc.org/index.php?title=Nail_changes&oldid=1641070"