Proper Diagnosis Key to Treating Brittle Nail Syndrome

Newswise — Brittle nail syndrome affects more than 20 percent of the United States population. Having nails that chip, split, peel and break easily is more than a cosmetic issue because unhealthy nails may make it harder to perform daily activities and also may have a negative impact on a person's work and self-esteem.

According to a study published in the October 2005 issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, if BNS is not properly diagnosed, treatment may be less effective. Dermatologists are the physician experts in diagnosing brittle nail syndrome (BNS).

"By evaluating BNS patients for nail plate splitting, horizontal nail splitting, ridges and grooves present in the nail, vertical nail splitting and nail thickness, a dermatologist can determine which treatments may be best for the patient," said dermatologist and co-author of the article Richard K. Scher, M.D.

Treatment of BNS depends on the cause of the problem. BNS can be caused by a variety of factors such as constant wetting and drying of the hands, work-related exposure to chemicals and repetitive trauma to the fingernail that occurs from activities like typing. The aging process also may play a role, as the nails of older adults grow more slowly and have undergone more exposure to conditions that can cause BNS. Additionally, BNS can be caused by problems in the root of the nail that are caused by disease or nutritional issues.

Patients whose occupation, like dishwashing or hairdressing, requires them to constantly wet and dry their hands may find that wearing gloves can help lessen their BNS problems. When repeated trauma is the culprit, cutting the nails short can help. Underlying disease and nutritional problems also should be addressed if they are causing or contributing to BNS.

"General therapies to treat BNS include increasing and retaining the water content in the nails by soaking them nightly and applying moisturizer and decreasing the irregularities of the nail by gluing fractures and splits with acrylic glues," Dr. Scher said. "Treating brittle nails can be challenging, but a dermatologist can help patients with BNS obtain healthier nails which can help improve their quality of life." The American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 14,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or http://www.aad.org.