Nail Issues in Children: Seeking Solutions for Your Daughter's Condition

Q: Nail Issues in Children: Seeking Solutions for Your Daughter's Condition

Mrs. <br>Wong： There are many reasons for nail changes, such as： 1) Dry and brittle nails (lack of vitamin A and calcium) 2) Thickened and gray nails (fungal infection) 3) Nail splitting and peeling (prolonged exposure to cleaning agents, hyperthyroidism, bacterial infection, ane

Nail problems (children)

Dear Dr.
Huang,
I have a nine-year-old daughter.
Since she was two years old, her normal nails have undergone changes; the surface of her nails has become dull, and there are signs of surface peeling, resembling the effects of a child biting their nails.
Initially, only one or two fingers were affected, but it has progressed to involve both her fingers and toes.
The thickness of her nails is harder than normal, and based on my observations, the affected nails appear to grow in this way rather than changing after they have grown out.
We have consulted various doctors (pediatricians and dermatologists); some have said it is nothing to worry about, while others have suggested it may be a case of nail dystrophy.

Could you please provide your professional opinion on whether my daughter's nails can be treated? Is there an effective remedy? What can we do to help her?
Sincerely,
Mrs.
Wang

Mrs. Wang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/26

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine

Mrs.
Wong: There are many reasons for nail changes, such as: 1) Dry and brittle nails (lack of vitamin A and calcium) 2) Thickened and gray nails (fungal infection) 3) Nail splitting and peeling (prolonged exposure to cleaning agents, hyperthyroidism, bacterial infection, anemia) 4) Weak and fragile nails (deficiency in calcium, iron, and B vitamins, thyroid issues, kidney dysfunction, circulatory problems), etc.
You may visit a dermatology or family medicine clinic for follow-up treatment.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Jianling, Department of Family Medicine, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2005/05/26

More Info

Dear Ms. Wang,
Thank you for reaching out regarding your daughter’s nail condition. It sounds like a challenging situation, and I understand your concern as a parent. Nail issues in children can arise from various causes, and it’s essential to approach them with a comprehensive understanding.

From your description, it appears that your daughter has been experiencing changes in her nails since she was two years old. The symptoms you mentioned, such as the dullness, surface peeling, and increased thickness of the nails, could indicate a few potential underlying issues. While I cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without a physical examination, I can offer some insights into possible causes and management strategies.

1. Nail Disorders: The changes in your daughter’s nails could be attributed to several nail disorders, including onychomycosis (fungal infection), nail psoriasis, or even trauma to the nails. Fungal infections can cause nails to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. Psoriasis can lead to pitting, discoloration, and changes in nail texture. Trauma, such as frequent nail-biting or injury, can also result in abnormal nail growth.

2. Genetic Factors: Some nail conditions can be hereditary. If there is a family history of nail disorders, this could be a contributing factor. Conditions like nail dystrophy can manifest as abnormal nail growth and may require specialized treatment.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as biotin, zinc, or iron, can affect nail health. Ensuring that your daughter has a balanced diet rich in these nutrients may help improve her nail condition.

4. Environmental Factors: Frequent exposure to water, harsh chemicals, or irritants can lead to nail damage. Encourage your daughter to wear gloves while doing household chores or when her hands are in water for extended periods.

5. Consultation with Specialists: Since you have already seen pediatricians and dermatologists, I recommend seeking a consultation with a pediatric dermatologist who specializes in nail disorders. They may perform a thorough examination and possibly recommend a biopsy or other diagnostic tests to determine the exact cause of the nail changes.

6. Treatment Options: Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. If a fungal infection is diagnosed, antifungal medications may be prescribed. For psoriasis, topical treatments or systemic medications may be necessary. In some cases, simply improving nail care practices and ensuring proper nutrition can lead to significant improvements.

7. Nail Care Practices: Encourage your daughter to keep her nails clean and trimmed. Avoid biting or picking at the nails, as this can exacerbate the problem. Moisturizing the nails and cuticles can also help maintain their health.

In conclusion, while it is difficult to provide a specific treatment plan without a thorough evaluation, I encourage you to pursue further consultation with a pediatric dermatologist. They can offer tailored advice and treatment options based on your daughter’s specific condition. In the meantime, focus on maintaining good nail hygiene and a balanced diet to support her overall health.

I hope this information is helpful, and I wish you and your daughter the best in finding a solution to her nail issues.

Warm regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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