12 Surprising Causes of Spoon-Shaped Nails (Koilonychia)

11. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency can contribute to a range of nail abnormalities, including koilonychia. This essential vitamin plays a key role in the production of red blood cells and the maintenance of healthy tissues. A deficiency in B12 leads to megaloblastic anemia, characterized by the production of abnormally large and ineffective red blood cells, which reduces oxygen delivery to peripheral tissues like the nail beds. This can result in brittle, spoon-shaped nails. Including vitamin B12-rich foods, such as meat, fish, eggs, and fortified cereals, or taking supplements can help correct the deficiency and improve nail health.

12. Hemochromatosis

Hemochromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes excessive iron accumulation in the body, can also result in koilonychia. While iron deficiency is a more common cause, the excess iron in hemochromatosis damages tissues and organs, including those responsible for nail health. The condition often leads to brittle, deformed nails due to systemic disruptions in iron metabolism. Other symptoms of hemochromatosis include joint pain, fatigue, and skin pigmentation changes. Managing iron levels through regular blood removal (therapeutic phlebotomy) or medications can help alleviate associated symptoms, including koilonychia.