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Dermatology (Expert Forum)
Nail Loss in Toddler
Answered by
Alan Rockoff, MD - dermatology, Child Skin Problems
The Rockoff Dermatology Center
Brookline - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Dermatology issues, such as: skin rashes, acne, birthmarks, skin infections, rosacea, and general skin care.
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Nail Loss in Toddler
by teri, Sep 04, 2000 12:00AM
My Nephew is 2 1/2 years old. About 3 weeks ago he lost about 6 nails on both his hands and feet. They are growing back but are now pitted. He also has what his pediatrician thought was pneumonia but this was not confirmed by x-rays. Other than some congestion and wheezing, he appears normal and healthy. When he was taken to a dermatologist, the doctor said, "are you sure he is not seriously ill?" This lead to a lot of anxiety in the family, but so far we have no answers.
Doctor's Answer
by Alan Rockoff, MD, Sep 05, 2000 12:00AM
, Sep 05, 2000 12:00AM
Teri:
Although I have not observed this myself, sudden changes in nails (or hair) suggest at times a sudden illness, but not necessarily a serious one. In other words, this may be an aftermath of the pneumonia. First, I would confirm with your pediatrician that the child is indeed not seriously ill. Assured that he isn't, don't worry about the nails anymore. I bet they all grow in fine eventually. If they don't, or get worse, you can always find another dermatologist.
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
P.S. Let me know in a month or so how it turns out, if you don't mind.
Although I have not observed this myself, sudden changes in nails (or hair) suggest at times a sudden illness, but not necessarily a serious one. In other words, this may be an aftermath of the pneumonia. First, I would confirm with your pediatrician that the child is indeed not seriously ill. Assured that he isn't, don't worry about the nails anymore. I bet they all grow in fine eventually. If they don't, or get worse, you can always find another dermatologist.
Best.
Dr. Rockoff
P.S. Let me know in a month or so how it turns out, if you don't mind.
Member Comments (1)
by oma121, May 13, 2008 01:52PM
A related discussion, nail loss in toddler was started.
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