Nutrition and nail disease.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Nutritional Science
• Nail Biology

Background:

• Nail disorders represent 10% of dermatologic conditions, yet are often overlooked.
• The nail is a complex keratinous skin appendage with critical functions.
• Understanding nail anatomy and composition is key to diagnosing and treating disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of nail anatomy and function.
• To examine the chemical profile of the nail plate, including keratin and mineral content.
• To review nail manifestations of nutritional deficiencies and their impact on nail structures.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of basic nail anatomy and physiology.
• Analysis of the chemical composition of the nail plate.
• Review of clinical manifestations of nutritional deficiencies affecting nails.
• Examination of diagnostic terminology and differential diagnoses for nail abnormalities.
• Evaluation of evidence for nutrition-based treatments in nail disorders.

Main Results:

• Nutritional deficiencies significantly impact nail growth and appearance.
• Specific deficiencies manifest distinct abnormalities in nail structures (plate, bed, matrix).
• A wide range of nail plate and nail bed abnormalities have varied differential diagnoses.
• Evidence supports nutrition-based interventions for several nail disorders.

Conclusions:

• Nail health is intrinsically linked to nutritional status.
• Recognizing nutritional deficiency patterns in nail changes is crucial for diagnosis.
• Targeted nutritional interventions can effectively manage certain nail disorders.