[Yellow nail syndrome].

The yellow nail syndrome, first described in 1964 by Samman and White, consists of yellowish, dystrophic nails, lymphedema and pleural effusion. We present the clinical findings of a 53 years old woman who suffered of this very rare syndrome. The literature review reveals the different clinical features which were reported to be associated with the yellow nail syndrome. The pathogenesis of this autosomal-dominantly inherited syndrome consists of a dysfunction of the lymphatic drainage system, but details remain unknown. Up to now a causative treatment does not exist but topic tocopherol may improve the aspect of involved nails. A new study reports of good effects of oral zinc-application to nails and lymphedema.