Onychoschizia
Onychoschizia, also known as nail splitting and brittle nails, is a splitting of the free-edged tip of the nail.[1] There is also often a longitudinal split in addition to the separation of keratin layers.[2]
Cause
Frequent
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is by its appearance, but sometimes blood tests are required to look for iron deficiency, thyroid problems, and kidney problems.[1]
Treatment
Treatment is by discontinuing nail polish and applying moisturiser.[2] An acceptable alternative is gel nails.[2] Some favourable response has been reported with biotin if the person is deficient in vitamin B7.[1] It is not routinely given.[1]
Epidemiology
It is common among women and occurs in almost a third of newborns.[2]
Other animals
It also occurs in hooved animals such as horses.[4]
See also
- List of cutaneous conditions
References
- ^ ISBN 978-0-323-71236-1.
- ^ ISBN 978-0-323-54753-6.
- ^ ISBN 978-0-7020-6830-0.
- PMID 2273113.