Anaemia fingernails
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The Relationship Between Anaemia and Fingernail Changes
White Fingernails and Anaemia
White fingernails, medically known as leuconychia, can be a visible marker of various systemic conditions, including anaemia. A case study of a 74-year-old man with white fingernails revealed that his condition was linked to iron-deficiency anaemia. The patient exhibited symptoms such as fatigue and dyspnoea, and laboratory tests confirmed low haemoglobin and serum iron levels. The white fingernails, or leuconychia totalis, were attributed to impaired iron absorption following a subtotal gastrectomy. Treatment with iron supplementation resolved both the anaemia and the nail discoloration.
Nail Dystrophy and Iron-Deficiency Anaemia
Nail dystrophy, characterized by white, flaky nails that shed and regrow, has also been associated with iron-deficiency anaemia. A 31-year-old woman with a history of menorrhagia presented with such nail changes. Her haemoglobin levels were significantly low, and following oral iron therapy, her haemoglobin levels improved, and her nails returned to normal. This case highlights the link between iron-deficiency anaemia and specific nail abnormalities .
Non-Invasive Screening Methods
Recent advancements in non-invasive screening methods for anaemia have utilized digital images of nails and palms. Techniques such as image segmentation and machine learning algorithms, including Naive Bayes and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), have shown high accuracy in detecting anaemia based on the paleness of nails and palms. These methods offer a promising alternative for early and accessible anaemia detection .
Clinical Examination of Fingernails
Clinical examination of fingernails remains a valuable tool for diagnosing anaemia. The color and condition of the nails can provide significant clues. For instance, pale nails can indicate anaemia, and this method has been used effectively in bedside evaluations. The rich blood supply to the hands makes them a reliable site for assessing pallor and, by extension, anaemia.
Other Nail Changes in Anaemia
Anaemia can also manifest as other nail changes, such as koilonychia (spoon-shaped nails) and Beau's lines (horizontal ridges). These changes are often seen in severe cases of iron-deficiency anaemia and can serve as important diagnostic indicators .
Conclusion
Fingernail changes, including white nails, nail dystrophy, and other abnormalities, can be significant indicators of anaemia. Both clinical examination and advanced non-invasive screening methods can effectively utilize these changes for early diagnosis and treatment. Recognizing these signs can lead to timely intervention and improved patient outcomes.
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