Terry's nails

A condition characterized by white nails with a narrow band of pink at the tip

Terry's nails

Example of Terry's nails

Terry's nails is a physical condition in which the appearance of the fingernails is altered, typically characterized by a white nail bed with a narrow band of pink or brown at the distal edge of the nail. This condition is often associated with various systemic diseases and can be an important clinical indicator for underlying health issues.

Clinical presentation

Terry's nails are identified by their distinctive appearance. The majority of the nail plate appears white, with a "ground glass" appearance, and there is a narrow band of normal pink or brown coloration at the distal edge of the nail. This band is usually 1-2 mm wide. The lunula, or the crescent-shaped whitish area at the base of the nail, is often obscured or absent.

Associated conditions

Terry's nails can be associated with a variety of systemic diseases. Some of the most common conditions linked to Terry's nails include:

• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Congestive heart failure
• Diabetes mellitus
• Chronic kidney disease
• HIV/AIDS

The presence of Terry's nails can be an important diagnostic clue in the context of these diseases, and it often prompts further investigation into the patient's overall health.

Pathophysiology

The exact mechanism behind the development of Terry's nails is not fully understood. It is believed to be related to changes in the vascular bed beneath the nail plate, possibly due to alterations in blood flow or capillary density. These changes may be secondary to systemic conditions that affect the body's circulation or metabolism.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Terry's nails is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the nails. A thorough medical history and physical examination are essential to identify any underlying systemic conditions. Additional diagnostic tests may be warranted to investigate potential causes, such as liver function tests, renal function tests, and blood glucose levels.

Management

Management of Terry's nails involves addressing the underlying systemic condition. There is no specific treatment for the nail changes themselves, but improvement in the associated disease may lead to normalization of the nail appearance over time.

Related pages

• Nail anatomy
• Nail disease
• Liver disease
• Heart failure