Terry's nails

Terry's Nails

Terry's nails (/ˈtɛri/; named after Dr. Richard Terry) is a physical condition in which a person's fingernails or toenails appear white with a characteristic "ground glass" appearance, with no lunula (the crescent-shaped whitish area of the nail bed). The condition is thought to be due to a decrease in vascularity and an increase in connective tissue within the nail bed.

Etymology

The term "Terry's nails" is eponymously named after Dr. Richard Terry, who first described the condition in 1954.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of Terry's nails is the change in the color, texture, and shape of the nails. The nails turn white and become brittle and thin. The lunula, or the crescent-shaped whitish area of the nail bed, disappears.

Causes

Terry's nails can be a normal part of aging, but they can also be associated with serious health conditions, including cirrhosis, chronic kidney disease, congestive heart failure, and diabetes mellitus. It is also seen in patients with HIV infection and those undergoing chemotherapy.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Terry's nails is primarily based on the clinical appearance of the nails. A doctor may also take a patient's medical history into account, as Terry's nails can be a sign of an underlying health condition.

Treatment

Treatment for Terry's nails primarily involves addressing the underlying health condition. In some cases, a doctor may recommend using moisturizing creams or lotions to improve the appearance of the nails.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Terry's nails
Wikipedia's article - Terry's nails

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