What are some common causes of nail disorders?
Our nails may look abnormal due to various reasons. Some common causes of nail changes include nail trauma, bacterial or fungal nail infection and an associated skin condition such as psoriasis. Very rarely, benign tumours and skin cancers can cause abnormal-looking nails.
How are nail disorders diagnosed?
A clinical examination is required to confirm the cause of the nail abnormality. Sometimes, investigations such as fungal tests and nail biopsy may be necessary.
When do we need to do a nail biopsy?
A biopsy of the nail is done to help diagnose nail disorders, especially if skin cancer is suspected. It involves taking a small piece of tissue from the nail bed or nail matrix (the part where the nail grows from) for examination under the microscope (histopathological examination).
Is the dark band on my nail something to be worried about?
A dark vertical band on the nail is known as linear melanonychia. Sometimes, it may be extensive and cover the entire nail. Linear melanonychia is usually due to the activation of pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) at the nail matrix, where the new nail grows out from. Some causes of linear melanonychia include nail trauma, infection, hereditary factors, medication, skin tumours (such as a mole) and skin cancers Sometimes, a dark discolouration of the nails may not be due to melanin (skin pigment).
A blood clot under the nail or external colouring agents like dye can appear worrisome but are harmless. As there are many causes of melanonychia, it is important for you to consult a dermatologist if you have a new onset of a pigmented band on your nail.
