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Yellow nail syndrome is a rare disorder of the nail. Yellow nail syndrome most often starts in middle age, although a similar condition has been described in younger children. Yellow nail syndrome is believed to be caused by congenital abnormalities in the lymphatic system. It usually runs in families with the typical pattern of an autosomal dominant. Yellow nail syndrome is characterized by yellow nails that lack a cuticle, grow slowly, and are loose or detached. It is usually accompanied by lymphoedema (swelling of parts of the body caused by blockage or damage to the drainage of the lymphatic system). It may also be associated with recurrent pleural effusions and less commonly bronchiectasis (chronic, abnormal dilation of the bronchi in the lungs), chronic bronchitis and sinus infections. People with yellow nail syndrome may have symptoms including thickened, curved, slow-growing, and swelling of the lymph system in various parts of the body. Additional symptoms relating to the lungs may also occur. Sometimes, nails present loss of cuticula, and erythema and edema of the proximal nail folds. Supplementation with vitamin E has been used successfully with people who have yellow nail syndrome in several preliminary reports. Although topical use of the vitamin has also been reported to be effective, taking vitamin E supplements is much easier and less messy.
Causes of Yellow nail syndrome
The common causes of Yellow nail syndrome include the following:
- The exect cause of yellow nail syndrome is unknown.
- Congenital abnormalities in the lymphatic system.
- A history of yellow nail syndrome.
Symptoms of Yellow nail syndrome
Some symptoms related to Yellow nail syndrome are as follows:
- Yellow-to-greenish nails.
- Swelling of the lymph system in various parts of the body.
- Pleural effusions.
- Additional symptoms relating to the lungs may also occur.
- Swelling less often affects the hands, face or genitals.
- Nails mainly remain smooth but may be cross-ridging and nail humped with loss of cuticles.
Treatment of Yellow nail syndrome
Here is list of the methods for treating Yellow nail syndrome:
- Treatment of nails includes topical vitamin E solution and oral itraconazole.
- Prescription drug therapy might include oral antibiotics to control infection in the airway, such as amoxicillin, cephalexin, clarithromycin, and azithromycin.
- Bronchodilators, such as albuterol, salmeterol, and ipratropium bromide, may be used to open airways.
- Zinc supplements have also been used but it is unclear whether they are effective.
- Treatment may include physical therapy, such as postural drainage, clapping, and vibration.
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