Multiple issues with fingernails, somewhat worried.

I have been having a strange problem with my fingernails for a while now.  I began noticing it about 3 months ago, mainly starting on the ring finger of my left hand, but since then it has spread to pretty much all of my nails in varying degrees.  Main characteristics include:

Pronounced vertical ridges
Nails are very soft (they haven't broken or split yet)
Pale nail beds with band of pink on distal edge (also a wavy whitish line just near where the pale meets the pink)
Lunulas gone except on thumbs and right index finger
Nail beds seem to be receding from distal end

(Note: I'm also noticing these symptoms on my toenails but they are not as pronounced)

Here is an image of a few of the worst of my nails, immediately after trimming them: http://i.imgur.com/41CNr.jpg

I have spoken with my GP about the problem and he doesn't feel like there is much to be concerned about, but these changes seem too sudden and too pronounced to be nothing.  I have been tested for the following and everything has come back normal: Thyroid function, liver function, diabetes, anemia (CBC), iron, vitamin B12, and a standard STD panel.

Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Vertical ridges on nails are common when you age. Vertical ridges also indicate poor general health, poor nutrient absorption, and/or iron deficiency; they may also indicate a kidney disorder. Receding nail bed may be due to Onycholysis which is a sort of fungal infection. Also it may be caused from excessive filing, from the chemical in manicures and nail tip application.

Get a KOH examination of the nail scrapings done from a dermatologist.
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.