Nail Discoloration Symptoms
Symptom Checker: Symptoms & Signs Index
Nail discoloration, in which the nails appear white,
yellow, or greenish, can result from different infections and conditions of the
skin. In about 50% of
cases, discolored nails are a result of infections with common fungi that can be
found in the air, dust, and soil. There are many species of fungi that can
affect nails. By far the most common, however, is called Trichophyton rubrum.
This type of fungus has a tendency
to infect the skin and is therefore known as a dermatophyte. Pseudomonas is a
type of bacteria that infects the nail bed and
result in a greenish color to the nails. Red or black nails may result from a
hematoma (a collection
of blood) under the nail as a result of trauma (including
ingrown toenails).
Chronic medical conditions also can affect the appearance
of the nails. Specific color changes in the nails can be suggestive of diabetes
or of liver,
kidney, heart, or lung
conditions. This is why doctors pay specific attention to
nails during a routine physical examination.
Other, rare causes of discolored nails include the
"yellow nail syndrome," an inherited condition that results in slow-growing, discolored nails and is
associated with lymphedema (swelling of
tissues due to the accumulation of fluid) and lung diseases. Nails may also
appear lightened to a whitish-yellow color if there has been separation of the
nail from the nail bed, termed onycholysis.
Main Articles on Nail Discoloration
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Causes of Nail Discoloration
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Atopic Dermatitis
Eczema is a general term for many types dermatitis (skin inflammation). Atopic dermatitis is the most common of the many types of...learn more »
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Fungal Nails
Fungal nails (onychomycosis) may be caused by many species of fungi but the most common is Trichophyton rubrum. Distal subungal...learn more »
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Ingrown Toenail
Ingrown toenails are caused by the growth of the toenail into the surrounding nail fold. Symptoms include toe pain, swelling,...learn more »
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Jaundice
Jaundice is a yellowish staining of the skin and whites of the eyes (sclerae) with bilirubin, the pigment found in bile. Jaundice...learn more »
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Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is a common skin disease that features small, itchy pink or purple spots on the arms or legs. the abnormal areas on...learn more »
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Nail Fungus
Fungal nails (onychomycosis) occur when microscopic fungus enters a fingernail or toenail. Symptoms and signs of onychomycosis...learn more »
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Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a long-term skin condition that may cause large plaques of red, raised skin, flakes of dry skin, and skin scales....learn more »
Other Causes of Nail Discoloration
Examples of Medications for Nail Discoloration
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