Parrot Beak Nails Revisited: Case Series and Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The term "parrot beak nail" describes a morphologic change of the nail plate characterized by excessive forward curvature. It may be associated with systemic disease or, most commonly, occurs as an idiopathic finding complicated by delayed nail plate trimming. The characteristics of parrot beak nails in ten men are described, and the features of this acquired nail deformity are reviewed. Of the ten patients, six presented with concurrent neuropathies that resulted in frequent foot injuries or falls. While the true incidence of parrot beak nails is unknown, this nail deformity occurred in 2.1 % of patients seen by a single physician during a 3-month period. In conclusion, parrot beak nails secondary to poor nail care may lead to functional impairment, tissue injury, and subsequent infections. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to look for these nail lesions on cutaneous examination and recommend frequent nail trimmings to individuals with parrot beak nails.