Koilonychia
Koilonychia
Koilonychia (pronounced: koy-loh-nik-ee-uh), also known as spoon nails, is a nail disease that can cause the nails to thin and become concave, or spoon-shaped. The term is derived from the Greek words 'koilos' (meaning hollow) and 'onyx' (meaning nail).
Causes
Koilonychia is often associated with iron deficiency anemia, hemochromatosis (an iron overload disorder), Plummer-Vinson syndrome, and malnutrition. It can also be a result of trauma or occupational exposure to petroleum-based solvents. In some cases, it may be a congenital condition.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of koilonychia is the development of thin, concave, spoon-shaped nails. Other symptoms may include nail brittleness, ridges in the nails, and pale coloration of the nails.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of koilonychia is typically based on the physical appearance of the nails. Additional tests may be conducted to determine the underlying cause, such as blood tests to check for iron deficiency.
Treatment
Treatment for koilonychia typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may include dietary changes or supplements to address iron deficiency, or changes in occupational exposure if petroleum-based solvents are a factor.
Related Terms
- Anemia: A condition in which there is a deficiency of red cells or of haemoglobin in the blood, resulting in pallor and weariness.
- Hemochromatosis: An hereditary disorder causing the body to absorb too much iron, which is then deposited in various organs, potentially causing damage.
- Plummer-Vinson syndrome: A rare disease characterized by difficulty swallowing, iron-deficiency anemia, and esophageal webs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Koilonychia
- Wikipedia's article - Koilonychia
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