Successful use of topical vitamin E solution in the treatment of nail changes in yellow nail syndrome.

Abstract

A double-blind controlled study was performed on a patient with long-standing yellow nail syndrome to investigate the potential beneficial role of topical vitamin E solution for the nail changes seen in this disorder. Three nails received active solution containing DL-alpha-tocopherol in dimethyl sulfoxide; three nails received dimethyl sulfoxide only; and the remainder were untreated. After 6 months of therapy, the three nails treated with active solution showed marked clinical improvement and a corresponding increase in nail growth rates. Dimethyl sulfoxide alone produced a small increase in nail growth rate and slight clinical improvement. Active solution was then applied to all of the nails for a further 6 months, resulting in clinical improvement and increased nail growth rates in the remaining nails. These beneficial effects require further study.

• Authors: H C Williams, R Buffham, A du Vivier
• Journal: Archives of dermatology (Arch Dermatol) Vol. 127 Issue 7 Pg. 1023-8 (Jul 1991) ISSN: 0003-987X [Print] United States
• PMID: 2064401 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Clinical Trial, Controlled Clinical Trial, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Vitamin E
• Dimethyl Sulfoxide

Topics

• Administration, Topical
• Dimethyl Sulfoxide (administration & dosage)
• Double-Blind Method
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Nail Diseases (drug therapy, pathology)
• Nails (drug effects, pathology)
• Syndrome
• Time Factors
• Vitamin E (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)