By Bridget Sullivan, PA-C Coastal Skin Surgery and Dermatology, PCB
Some medical conditions might not appear to be obvious on the outside of the body, but did you know that some medical conditions can appear through changes in our nails? This article will provide you with examples of changes in fingernail shape, color, and texture, and possible medical conditions related to those changes.
Clubbed Nails – The fingernails may appear swollen and curved, resembling an upside-down spoon or dome shape. This can be a sign of a heart or lung condition.
Spoon Nails – The fingernails have a spoon-shaped appearance. This can be a sign of iron deficiency, anemia or thyroid disease.
Beau’s Lines – The fingernails or toenails have horizontal grooves or ridges that appear when nail growth is temporarily interrupted. This can be the cause of uncontrolled diabetes, severe illness or injury, infections, or nutritional deficiencies.
Nail Pitting– The fingernails or toenails have small depressions or dents in the nail. This can be a sign of eczema, psoriasis or alopecia areata.
Hutchinson’s Sign – The fingernail or toenail may have a brown on black line underneath the nail that extends to the cuticle or nailfold. This could be a sign of melanoma.
Pay attention to your nails. Changes in shape, color, texture, or any other abnormalities can be an indicator of the conditions noted, or other systemic illnesses and diseases. If you see any abnormalities in your nails, it is important to bring this to the attention of your medical provider for further evaluation.
