Nail Findings: What’s a Provider to Do?

Examination of the nails can provide clues in determining systemic disorders before systemic manifestations signify underlying infection or even internal malignancy. Providers should be familiar with normal nail anatomy, specific history questions related to nail pathology, nail signs of systemic disease, and common nail findings. This review highlights normal nail anatomy, specific nail signs, and pertinent history, physical examination findings, and treatments of selected nail abnormalities.