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Nail changes in patients with liver disease
1Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt. aasalem@live.com
Summary
Nail abnormalities are common in patients with liver disease, including hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. These nail changes can aid clinicians in diagnosing these systemic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Liver cirrhosis, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections are linked to various skin disorders.
- Nail changes represent potential diagnostic markers for these systemic liver diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document previously unreported nail abnormalities in patients with liver disease, specifically those infected with HCV and HBV.
- To investigate the association between nail changes and liver conditions.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 100 patients with HCV, HBV, or liver cell failure and 100 healthy controls.
- Comprehensive medical history, physical examinations, laboratory tests (including liver function, viral markers), and abdominal ultrasonography were conducted.
- Detailed nail examinations were performed on all participants.
Main Results:
- Nail abnormalities were significantly more frequent in the patient group (68%) compared to controls (35%).
- Onychomycosis (nail infection) was the most common finding in patients (18%) and controls (10%).
- Other prevalent nail changes included longitudinal striations, brittle nails, onychorrhexis, clubbing, dystrophic nails, leukonychia, and longitudinal melanonychia.
Conclusions:
- Nail changes are indicative not only of liver cirrhosis but also of HCV and HBV infections.
- These findings provide additional clinical criteria for general practitioners and dermatologists in diagnosing common systemic viral infections.
- Nail examination can serve as a valuable diagnostic aid for liver diseases.
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