Koilonychia, also known as spoon nails, is a condition where the nails become abnormally thin and develop a concave, spoon-shaped depression.
🔍 Features of Koilonychia
- Nails curve upward from the edges, forming a spoon-like shape
- Nails may be brittle or fragile
- Usually affects fingernails, especially thumbs
- Can affect one or multiple nails
⚠️ Causes
| Cause Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Iron Deficiency Anemia | Most common cause |
| Nutritional Deficiencies | Vitamin B12, folic acid, zinc deficiency |
| Trauma or Nail Injury | Repeated mechanical damage |
| Systemic Diseases | Hypothyroidism, diabetes, lupus |
| Occupational Exposure | Prolonged exposure to solvents or detergents |
| Congenital Koilonychia | Rare, inherited form |
🔍 Symptoms
- Noticeable spoon-shaped nails
- Nails may be brittle or break easily
- Sometimes associated with other symptoms of underlying conditions (e.g., fatigue in anemia)
🛠️ Diagnosis
- Clinical examination
- Blood tests to check for iron deficiency or other systemic issues
- Review of medical history and exposure risks
🛡️ Management
- Treat underlying cause (e.g., iron supplements for anemia)
- Protect nails from trauma and irritants
- Maintain good nail hygiene
- Use moisturizers to reduce brittleness