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Methods for Measuring Fingernail Growth Rates in Nutritional Studies^1,2,

Department of Agricultural Biochemistry, New Jersey Agrioultural Experiment Station, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick

Evidence in the literature has shown that fingernail formation is probably influenced by the state of nutrition, endocrine factors, disease, and environmental factors. It is suggested that quantitative measurements of fingernail growth response following dietary supplementation might be useful in assessing the nutritional status of individuals. A method for measuring nail growth rates over short time periods is presented which was found to be capable of detecting differences in fingernail growth rates of approximately 5%. The method is based on measuring the distance a scratch-mark on the thumbnail advances with respect to the lunula during one week. Enlarged photographs are used to record the positions of the mark and increase the precision of the measurements. The method gives a permanent, objective measure of anabolic processes without discomfort to the subject.

² Paper of the Journal Series, New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, Rutgers University, the State University of New Jersey, Department of Agricultural Biochemistry, New Brunswick.

Manuscript received 19 August 1954.