Question

What are the clinical findings associated with 1 mm wide horizontal depressions in the nail plates caused by growth arrest?

1) acute, severe illness
2) prolonged febrile state
3) isolated periods of severe malnutrition

Answer 1

Horizontal depressions in nail plates, known as Beau's lines, can be associated with severe illness, febrile states, or malnutrition. They indicate a temporary arrest in nail growth due to metabolic resources being reallocated during times of severe stress.

Step-by-step explanation:

1 mm wide horizontal depressions in nail plates caused by growth arrest are known as Beau's lines. These clinical findings are commonly associated with conditions such as acute, severe illness, prolonged febrile state, and isolated periods of severe malnutrition. The mentioned factors can temporarily halt the growth of the nail, leading to these characteristic indentations once the nail resumes growth.

The nail matrix is a deep layer of epidermal tissue responsible for nail growth. When the body experiences severe stress due to illness, fever, or malnutrition, the metabolic resources are redirected to vital organs, which may cause a temporary cessation of nail growth. Once the stressor is resolved and nail growth continues, the horizontal line, or Beau's line, becomes visible, moving out towards the nail tip as the nail grows.