A. A. Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects the spine. Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms include pain and stiffness from the neck down to the lower back.The spine 's bones (vertebrae) may grow or fuse together, resulting in a rigid spine.. A. Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects the spine. Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms include pain and stiffness from the neck down to the lower back.
Medical Conditions. Peeling and breaking of the fingernails can be caused by a fungal infection of the nails. Less commonly, brittle nails are due to other nail or skin conditions, such as psoriasis. Sometimes, brittle nails are a sign of a general medical condition, such as thyroid disease or diabetes.
Quick Answer. The main cause of a purple tinge in fingernails is low oxygen levels in the blood. This can be caused by poor circulation, as well as habits that inhibit oxygen absorption such as smoking. A single fingernail may also become purple if it has been injured, indicating a bruise underneath the nail.