Flat spooning nails

My husband and daughter both have very flat, think nails.  My 9 yr daughters nails are flat but have bumps within the nail bed.  Nails are very thin and separate.  we keep her nails short.  she is now becoming more concientious about this.  I did have a dermatologist look at her nails but he said she will grow out of this.

My Husband also has the same type of nail (which makes me weary that she will grow out of it).  His nails curve inward, and thin.  He says his nails hurt.  He has been tested for Iron Deficiency anemia but this was normal.

Any suggestions?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Flat thin nails can be due to vitamin B 12 deficiency or anemia. You need to get your vitamin B 12 levels and a complete blood count done for your husband and your daughter. Also ask them to take vitamin B 12 supplements and iron supplements for some days and give them a healthy, nutritious diet consisting of green leafy vegetables.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.