Yellow Nail Syndrome

Yellow nail syndrome is believed to be caused by congenital abnormalities in the lymphatic system.

Although it primarily affects the nails and lymphatic tissue, it frequently is associated with lung disease.

Checklist for Yellow Nail Syndrome

Rating Nutritional Supplements Herbs
2Stars

Vitamin E

  
3Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

What are the symptoms of yellow nail syndrome?

People with yellow nail syndrome may have symptoms including thickened, curved, slow-growing, yellow-to-greenish nails; and swelling of the lymph system in various parts of the body. Additional symptoms relating to the lungs may also occur.

Medical treatments

Prescription drug therapy might include oral antibiotics to control infection in the airway, such as amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin®), cephalexin (Keflex®), clarithromycin (Biaxin®), and azithromycin (Zithromax®). Bronchodilators, such as albuterol (Proventil®, Ventolin®), salmeterol (Serevent®), and ipratropium bromide (Atrovent®), may be used to open airways.

Treatment may include physical therapy, such as postural drainage, clapping, and vibration. Healthcare practitioners typically recommend avoiding cigarette smoke and other respiratory irritants, cough suppressants, and sleeping pills.

Nutritional supplements that may be helpful

Supplementation with vitamin E has been used successfully with people who have yellow nail syndrome in several preliminary reports.1 2 3 Although topical use of the vitamin has also been reported to be effective,4 taking vitamin E supplements is much easier and less messy. A typical amount is 800 IU per day, with results beginning to appear after several months.

Are there any side effects or interactions?
Refer to the individual supplement for information about any side effects or interactions.

References

1. Norton L. Further observations on the yellow nail syndrome with therapeutic effects of oral alpha-tocopherol. Cutis 1985;36:457–62.

2. Ayres S Jr, Hihan R. Yellow nail syndrome: response to vitamin E. Arch Dermatol 1973;108:267–8.

3. Ayres S Jr. Yellow nail syndrome controlled by vitamin E therapy. J Am Acad Dermatol 1986;15:714–6 [letter].

4. Williams HC, Buffham R, du Vivier A. Successful use of topical vitamin E solution in the treatment of nail changes in yellow nail syndrome. Arch Dermatol 1991;127:1023–8.