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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Fingernail problems
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Fingernail problems
by Mom6315, Jan 24, 2009 09:34AM
I have an 8 yr old daughter who has two fingernails, one on each hand, that are not smooth, they are slightly bumby and the nail that grows out at the end is not uniform, curvy. They do not have complete horizontal ridges across them. Sort of like moguls on a ski slope. They are not discolored and it only occurs in those two fingernails.
She has had this for close to a year. She's rarely sick and if it was nail fungus I would think it would have spread to her other nails. Thank you
She has had this for close to a year. She's rarely sick and if it was nail fungus I would think it would have spread to her other nails. Thank you
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Jan 25, 2009 07:08AM
, Jan 25, 2009 07:08AM
This is not really a GI problem, and probably should be posted in the dermatology forum.
In any case, I would have a skin specialist look at the nails. Obtaining sample nail clippings and sending it off for a fungal culture can confirm the diagnosis of an infection. If present, then appropriate anti-fungal medications should be started.
There are also various rheumatological diseases that can present with fingernail symptoms, and if suspected, various anti-antibody tests can be done as well as a referral to a rheumatologist.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd
In any case, I would have a skin specialist look at the nails. Obtaining sample nail clippings and sending it off for a fungal culture can confirm the diagnosis of an infection. If present, then appropriate anti-fungal medications should be started.
There are also various rheumatological diseases that can present with fingernail symptoms, and if suspected, various anti-antibody tests can be done as well as a referral to a rheumatologist.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd
Member Comments (2)
by Mom6315, Jan 25, 2009 08:36AM
Thank you for your comments. Yes, I know its not a GI Problem, didn't realize I was posting under GI. Can't say the page is user friendly. My mistake.
