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Koilonychia
System: Blood & Lymph Signs · All blood & lymph signs
What it is — and how it is elicited
The fingernails become thin, flat and then spoon-shaped, curving upward so they can hold a drop of water.
What a positive finding suggests
Associated with iron deficiency; also seen as a normal variant in young children.
Related signs — Blood & Lymph Signs
Browse the K section of the A–Z list or return to the Clinical Signs hub.
Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.