X-Ray Microanalysis of the Fingernails in Cirrhotic Patients

Abstract

The element content of clipped nails of 13 patients with liver cirrhosis was examined by X-ray microanalysis, and compared with that of 50 healthy subjects. The results showed a statistically significant increase in the percentage of Na, Mg and P and a slight, but statistically significant decrease in S and Cl. The percentage of K, Ca, Fe, Cu and Zn did not show any difference from that of the controls. The findings indicate that X-ray microanalysis may be a valuable tool for the simultaneous examination of a large number of elements in the fingernails.

The human nail – Barrier characterisation and permeation enhancement

“…As for the previous two methodologies, this technique gained attention because of its ability to profile trace element amounts, initially in skin and subsequently in nails Roomans et al (1978) reported the use of EDS to profile Na, K and Cl levels in cystic fibrosis patients and noted elevated levels of these elements in CF patients compared with healthy subjects. Djaldetti et al, 1987 used this technique to examine the elemental content of nail clippings from 13 patients with liver cirrhosis compared with those from 50 healthy subjects. Statistically significant increases in the percentage of Na, Mg and P and a slight, but statistically significant decrease in S and Cl were observed for patients with liver cirrhosis.…”

Nail biology and nail science

“…Much interest has been demonstrated in the analysis of nails as a source of information concerning health. A significant increase in the nail content of Na, Mg and P was noted in a survey of 50 patients with cirrhosis [167]. In a comparison of term and preterm infants, a decrease in aluminium and sulphur was found in term deliveries.…”

X‐Ray Microanalysis of the Fingernails in Term and Preterm Infants

“…Increased concentrations of Na, K. and Cl were reported in patients with cystic fibrosis (9). A previous study from our laboratory showed an increase of Na, Mg, and P, as well as a decrease in S and Cl in patients with liver cirrhosis (2). Changes in the element composition of the fingernails were mentioned in a long list of specific pathologies (I).…”

“…Different methods have been applied to detect the element content in fingernails. X-ray microanalysis may be a relatively easy and rapid method for that purpose (2). A change in the element content of fingernails may be observed in various pathologic conditions, especially liver diseases (2,3).…”

“…X-ray microanalysis may be a relatively easy and rapid method for that purpose (2). A change in the element content of fingernails may be observed in various pathologic conditions, especially liver diseases (2,3). The concentration of trace elements such as Cu, Zn, Fe, and Mg was examined in 212 healthy children by Alexiou et al (4) using atomic absorption spectroscopy.…”