Nail changes in oral lesions: A clue to diagnosis

Baby, Tibin K; Prasad, Gopal; Sunil, S

doi:10.4103/1119-0388.218217

Cited by 1 publication

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“…Nail color changes, which occur gradually, can occur in nail plates or nail beds [ 2 , 3 ]. These changes can indicate chronic changes in the human body [ 4 , 5 , 6 ]. Patients with heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and advanced age experience whitening of the nails, with the distal parts of the nails turning brown due to telangiectasis; this condition is called Terry’s nail [ 7 , 8 ].…”

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confidence: 99%

The Relationship between the Presence of White Nails and Mortality among Rural, Older, Admitted Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study

Ohta¹,

Ryu²,

Sano

2021

Healthcare

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White nails are a sign of various physical deteriorations, including poor nutrition, organ damage, and aging. During a physical examination, white nails can be a helpful health indicator in older patients with vague and multiple symptoms. In this prospective cohort study of patients admitted to the Department of General Medicine in a rural community hospital, we investigated the relationship between white nails and patient mortality. Patient data, including age, sex, condition, and bloodwork results, were collected. Trained family physicians confirmed the presence of white nails. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the relationship between white nails and death during hospitalization. Of 711 study participants, 74 died during hospitalization. White nails, male sex, and caregiver dependence were associated with high in-hospital mortality (odds ratio (OR) = 3.47, p < 0.001; OR 2.05, p = 0.01; OR 1.92, p = 0.049, respectively). High albumin concentration was associated with low in-hospital mortality (OR = 0.44, p < 0.001). White nails, along with serum albumin concentration, male sex, and caregiver dependence, are associated with mortality. The identification of white nails can predict the deterioration of patients. Various professionals should learn to identify the presence of white nails to facilitate the care of elderly patients.

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