Muehrcke's nails
Muehrcke's nails
Muehrcke's nails (pronounced: murk-eez nails) are a clinical sign characterized by the appearance of paired, white, transverse lines that span the width of the nail bed and do not move with nail growth. They were first described by Robert C. Muehrcke, MD, in 1956.
Etymology
The term "Muehrcke's nails" is named after Robert C. Muehrcke, MD, who first described this condition in 1956. The term is used in the medical field to describe a specific pattern of nail changes often associated with certain systemic diseases or conditions.
Definition
Muehrcke's nails are characterized by the presence of paired, white, transverse lines that span the width of the nail bed. These lines are usually parallel to the lunula (the crescent-shaped whitish area of the nail bed), and they do not move with nail growth. This is because the lines are in the vascular nail bed, and not in the nail plate itself.
Causes
Muehrcke's nails are often associated with systemic diseases or conditions that cause hypoalbuminemia, a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of albumin in the blood. These conditions may include malnutrition, nephrotic syndrome, liver disease, and chemotherapy.
Related Terms
- Hypoalbuminemia: A condition characterized by abnormally low levels of albumin in the blood.
- Nephrotic syndrome: A kidney disorder that causes the body to excrete too much protein in the urine.
- Liver disease: A type of medical condition that happens when the liver becomes diseased or injured.
- Chemotherapy: A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
See Also
- Beau's lines: Horizontal lines or grooves in the nail plate.
- Leukonychia: White discoloration appearing on nails.
- Nail anatomy: The different parts and structure of the nail.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Muehrcke's nails
- Wikipedia's article - Muehrcke's nails
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