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What Causes White Lines On The Finger Nails?

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Posted on Wed, 15 Mar 2017
Question: I have noticed a horizontal white area in the center of my nails and a red line above the half moon. I am not numb or in pain. (I have had breathing problems since May but they can't figure it out. I have had all tests). Is it normal for nails to look like this?
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Answered by Dr. Ilyas Patel (37 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Leuconychia striata most probably

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Welcome to HCM....

I read history and saw the photos,after that I could conclude that most probably you may be having leuconychia striata.

Leukonychia striata is a condition in which horizontal white streaks occur on the nail plate. And they are the result of abnormal keratinization of the nail plate.

Exact cause is not known,but following points may be considered...

-The tendency to develop leukonychia striata may be there which is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion.
-vigorous manicuring,
-trauma,
-wide variety of systemic illnesses.

It is found that in many patients there is no obvious cause and the white streaks resolve spontaneously.

In your case the leuconychia striata would have occurred due to multiple systemic diseases you suffer. However, it is not bothersome,so,do not worry. They might clear in few weeks to few months. No particular treatment is needed.

I hope this would have satisfied.

Thanks.

Dr.Ilyas Patel MD
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana
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Answered by
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Dr. Ilyas Patel

Dermatologist

Practicing since :1982

Answered : 4527 Questions

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What Causes White Lines On The Finger Nails?

Brief Answer: Leuconychia striata most probably Detailed Answer: Hi, Welcome to HCM.... I read history and saw the photos,after that I could conclude that most probably you may be having leuconychia striata. Leukonychia striata is a condition in which horizontal white streaks occur on the nail plate. And they are the result of abnormal keratinization of the nail plate. Exact cause is not known,but following points may be considered... -The tendency to develop leukonychia striata may be there which is inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. -vigorous manicuring, -trauma, -wide variety of systemic illnesses. It is found that in many patients there is no obvious cause and the white streaks resolve spontaneously. In your case the leuconychia striata would have occurred due to multiple systemic diseases you suffer. However, it is not bothersome,so,do not worry. They might clear in few weeks to few months. No particular treatment is needed. I hope this would have satisfied. Thanks. Dr.Ilyas Patel MD