HomeAnswersCardiologyclubbed fingersWhat are the causes of fingernail clubbing with no symptoms?

Can you please tell me if fingernail clubbing is harmless?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Infanteena Marily F.

Published At July 6, 2021
Reviewed AtJuly 12, 2023

Patient's Query

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 which is harmless? Please help me. Thank you very much.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Does anyone in your family have it? If yes, then it suggests the possibility of inherited cause only. If not, it can be primary or inherited clubbing. Yes, I have seen such patients with clubbing without 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 like 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 if you have any doubts or more information to share.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I have no symptoms related to coughing or shortness of breath. But, I do have a gaseous tendency, meaning I quickly get gases when I eat specific food like sprouts. Also, I usually have bowel movements two to three times a day which people typically have once a day.

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 create), you may need investigations. All the best.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sagar Ramesh Makode
Dr. Sagar Ramesh Makode

Cardiology

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