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Clubbing

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Nutrition for Nurses

Definition

Clubbing is a deformity of the fingers and fingernails associated with various diseases, primarily of the heart and lungs. It is characterized by bulbous enlargement of the ends of one or more fingers or toes.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Clubbing can be an indicator of chronic hypoxia, which affects nutrient delivery to tissues.
  2. It is often seen in patients with chronic lung conditions like cystic fibrosis or emphysema.
  3. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in protein and vitamins, can exacerbate clubbing.
  4. Assessment of clubbing involves checking for Schamroth's sign, where the normal diamond-shaped window between the nails disappears.
  5. Clubbing can also be associated with gastrointestinal diseases like Crohn's disease and cirrhosis.

Review Questions

  • What are common diseases associated with clubbing?
  • How can nutritional deficiencies impact the development or severity of clubbing?
  • What physical examination technique is used to assess for clubbing?

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