What are the common fingernail clubbing causes in a 27 y/o?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 27-year-old male, and I would like to consult about fingernail clubbing. I have attached photos of my fingers and toes. It looks like I have developed it in my hands and toes since I was born, but it was noticeable only when I grew up. I did consult with a cardiologist one to two years back, wherein he took my chest X-ray and 2D echo test, which seemed good to him.

He says this is harmless in my case and could be inherited clubbing. But, somehow, I have started getting worried about it. Can you check my fingers and let me know? Also, have you seen any fingernail clubbing cases that are harmless?

Please help me.

Thank you very much.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Does anyone in your family have it? If yes, then it suggests the possibility of an inherited cause only. If not, it can be primary or inherited clubbing. Yes, I have seen such patients with clubbing without an apparent secondary cause and any significant complications. Since it is a long-standing one in you and without any symptoms, it is likely to be inherited and primary clubbing. In the absence of symptoms, chest X-ray and echocardiography are enough.

However, suppose you have any other symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, or any gastrointestinal symptoms like chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, etc. In that case, you may need further investigations, such as a CT (computed tomography) scan. It does not appear to be anything serious in the absence of symptoms and normal echo, X-ray, etc.

I hope this helps you, and get back to me if you have any doubts or more information to share.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

These are not significant. So I do not think there is anything to worry about as of now. However, if you develop any symptoms like shortness of breath and long-standing coughing in the future (which is unlikely to occur), you may need investigations.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.