Changes Lunule Of Finger Nails In Various Diseases: A Clinical Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48047/Keywords:
Lunulae, fingernails, nail changes, disease, clinical study, diagnosis, arbitrary grading system, dermatological disorders, systemic conditions, infectious diseases.Abstract
Background: Nail changes, or lunulae, are an essential component of the overall clinical examination, often providing valuable insights into an individual's health status. This clinical study aimed to investigate the variations in fingernail lunulae associated with various diseases, offering a deeper understanding of the diagnostic potential of this overlooked aspect of physical examination.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical records of 500 patients, encompassing a wide range of diseases and medical conditions. Digital photographs of patients' fingernails were carefully examined for lunulae changes. Demographic data, medical histories, and laboratory findings were also considered in the analysis. An arbitrary grading system was devised to quantify the observed lunulae changes, ranging from 0 (no change) to 4 (severe change), enabling a standardized assessment.
Results: The study revealed a diverse spectrum of lunulae changes associated with different diseases. In patients with dermatological disorders, such as psoriasis, eczema, and lichen planus, a higher prevalence of lunulae discoloration and pitting was observed, with an average arbitrary score of 2.8. Systemic conditions, including diabetes and chronic kidney disease, showed an association with lunulae brittleness and thinning, with an average
arbitrary score of 2.4. Furthermore, lunulae changes were also identified in infectious diseases like onychomycosis, where a distinctive fungal invasion pattern was observed, with an average arbitrary score of 3.2.
Conclusion: This clinical study demonstrates that fingernail lunulae can serve as valuable indicators of underlying medical conditions. Recognizing and quantifying these changes through an arbitrary grading system allows for a more objective assessment. Physicians should consider incorporating lunulae examination into routine clinical practice, as it may aid in early disease detection and monitoring. Further research is needed to expand our
understanding of lunulae changes in specific diseases, enabling more precise diagnoses.
