Nail clubbing
Nail Clubbing
Nail clubbing, also known as digital clubbing, is a deformity of the finger or toe nails associated with a number of diseases, mostly of the heart and lungs.
Pronunciation
Nail clubbing is pronounced as /neɪl ˈklʌbɪŋ/.
Etymology
The term "clubbing" is derived from the Old English word "clubba", which means "to swell". The term was first used in medical literature by the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, who noted the association between clubbed fingers and serious illnesses.
Definition
Nail clubbing involves a change in the angle between the nail and the nail bed, resulting in the nails appearing more convex or clubbed. This condition is often associated with low oxygen levels in the blood and could be a sign of various types of lung disease.
Related Terms
- Hippocratic fingers: Another term for nail clubbing, named after the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates.
- Schamroth's window test: A test used to identify nail clubbing.
- Drumstick fingers: A colloquial term for nail clubbing, referring to the appearance of the fingers.
Causes
Nail clubbing can be caused by a number of conditions, most commonly lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, and heart disease. Other causes can include liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and AIDS.
Symptoms
The main symptom of nail clubbing is a change in the angle between the nail and the nail bed. Other symptoms can include softening of the nail bed, increased curvature of the nail, and enlargement of the fingertips.
Treatment
Treatment for nail clubbing involves addressing the underlying condition causing the clubbing. This can involve medication, surgery, or other treatments depending on the specific condition.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nail clubbing
- Wikipedia's article - Nail clubbing
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