$Unique_ID{BRK01447}
$Pretitle{Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests}
$Title{What Does Looking at the Fingers and Nails Tell a Physician?}
$Subject{nails examination}
$Volume{P-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Does Looking at the Fingers and Nails Tell a Physician?


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QUESTION:  I get a great kick out of my refined and distinguished physician.
He always pretends he likes holding my hands, when I know he is really taking
a good look at my fingers and nails.  It is a great game but I always wanted
to ask him what he was looking for.  Perhaps you can tell me?  Thank you for
considering this question.

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ANSWER:  Gallantry in the examination room!  Not bad and a great technique to
permit a close observation of the nails, which, while not providing a complete
diagnosis, may provide some interesting clues to medical conditions.  Not all
changes have medical significance though, so not to worry.  However here are a
few.  Since the days of Aristotle, physicians have noted a condition called
clubbing, as being associated with underlying heart or lung disease.  Clubbed
nails are bulbous in shape and soft near the cuticle.  Thick nails may reveal
a fungus infection, while nails that curve like a spoon, or soft, pale nails
may result from an anemia.  Psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid
problems may also cause nail changes.  If a splinter hemorrhage can be
observed beneath the nail in the nail bed, an infection of a heart valve may
be the cause.  However, we have no answers for weak, soft, brittle or
splitting nails, and neither vitamin or topical therapies seem to be
effective.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
