What's Up Docs? Doctors’ Notes: Nails
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Aug 12, 2025 Dr. Yusur Al-Nuaimi, a Consultant Dermatologist and Clinical Lead for the British Hair and Nail Society, shares her passion for dermatology and the intriguing science behind nails. The discussion delves into how nails can signal serious health issues, like koelonychia and Beau's lines. Yusur emphasizes the importance of nail care and offers tips for maintaining healthy nails, while also tackling the challenges of nail biting among adolescents. Listeners will gain valuable insights on the connection between nail appearance and overall health.
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Nail Pitting Flags Autoimmune Skin Disease
- Nail pitting looks like tiny dents and signals immune attack on the nail-forming cells.
- Yusur Al-Nuaimi links widespread pitting to alopecia areata, eczema and psoriasis as diagnostic clues.
Dark Nail Streaks May Signal Heart Infection
- Splinter haemorrhages are thin dark streaks under the nail caused by tiny emboli.
- Yusur Al-Nuaimi warns they can indicate infective endocarditis and should not be ignored.
Spoon-Shaped Nails Hint At Iron Loss
- Koilonychia gives concave, spoon-shaped nails that can hold a droplet of water.
- Yusur Al-Nuaimi says this pattern often indicates iron deficiency and usually reverses with treatment.