Treatment of Brittle Nail Syndrome: Systematic Review

Background: The Brittle Nail Syndrome combines a series of changes in the composition and structure of the nail bed. The nail is an appendix of the skin, forming part of the integumentary system. Clinical signs of weak nail syndrome, occurs by changes in matrix and deeper layer of nails. This study aims to evaluate current treatments for fragile nail syndrome. Methods: Research was performed by consulting the PubMed, Medline and Bireme databases. The articles were selected by the following generated Mesh term: Brittle [All Fields] AND (“nails” [MeSH Terms] OR “nails” [All Fields] OR “nail” [All Fields]), and “Nails” [Mesh] AND (Review [ptyp] AND “humans” [MeSH Terms]). Results: There is no description of a single effective and predominant treatment. Given these results, we can suggest that information regarding lifestyle, profession and clinical examination represent an impact factor in the diagnosis and treatment of fragile nail syndrome. Conclusion: Although the literature is extensive, constantly updated, there is no standard of treatment for the disease. Individual aspects should be evaluated.