Yellow Nail Syndrome

Yellow nail syndrome is a rare condition that affects your nails, lungs and limbs. People with yellow nail syndrome get yellow, curved nails that may thicken or fall off. They also may have respiratory symptoms, such as a chronic cough, and usually have swollen lower legs or ankles.

Experts don’t know what causes yellow nail syndrome. But it may be linked to improper circulation, issues with lymphatic drainage or buildup of fluid around your lungs. You may also have a higher risk if you have one of a few specific chronic diseases, dental implants or a joint replacement.

Who might get yellow nail syndrome?

Yellow nail syndrome develops most often in adults over 50. More rarely, yellow nail syndrome sometimes occurs in children.

Some reports show higher rates of yellow nail syndrome in people with:

• Autoimmune diseases.
• Cancer.
• Nephrotic syndrome.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
• Thyroid disease.

How common is yellow nail syndrome?

Experts don’t know exactly how many people have yellow nail syndrome. But we do know the condition is rare. Medical journals have reported around 100 cases of yellow nail syndrome.