Melanocytic activation. This type of melanonychia occurs when the melanocytes are activated to produce melanin. The number of melanocytes stays the same. ‌ Melanoma of the nail bed is the most serious possible cause of melanonychia. To diagnose melanoma under a nail, doctors use the ABCDEF criteria: Free to everyone, these materials teach young people about common skin conditions, which can prevent misunderstanding and bullying. Find a dermatologist

Trauma: Trauma is one of the most common causes of splinter hemorrhages. This can occur when something hurts your nail bed and bursts a blood vessel under it. Melanocytic hyperplasia is the result of atypical growths in the nail bed. These growths may result from: Nail psoriasis can be challenging to treat and may require more than one type of treatment. If stronger treatments are necessary, a dermatologist may try: Lines that run the length of a nail are common and usually nothing to worry about. If you see deep grooves that run the width of your nail like the ones shown in this picture, it means that something slowed (or stopped) your nails from growing for a while.

Haber R, et al. (2016). Splinter hemorrhages of the nails: A systematic review of clinical features and associated conditions. Nail clubbing refers to changes under and around the toenails that cause your toes to take on a widened, club-like appearance.

Treatment depends on the type of trauma and extent of the injury. Treatment options may include surgery and medication. Other causes of toenail problems Ingrown toenails are one of the most common and most painful toenail problems. It occurs when the corner or side of your toenail grows into the flesh. Doctors can treat fungal nail infections with antifungal pills or by surgically removing the nail. 6. Onycholysis Melanonychia due to melanocytic proliferation can be either benign, which means noncancerous, or cancerous. Benign causes of melanocytic proliferation include nevi, which are moles, and lentigo, which are flat, pigmented areas of skin. ‌If you have thin fingernails that dip down in the middle and look like spoons, you may not be getting enough iron. People develop an iron deficiency for many reasons, including: If you have a disease, such as psoriasis, ichthyosis, or circulation problems, you may also develop Ram’s horn nails. If you're someone who will never succumb to the siren song of acrylic nails, are a nail-biter, just aren't a big fan of long nails, or are cursed with weak nails that just won't grow no matter how many supplements you take, don't fret. You and your adorable short nails can still hang. Melanocytic activation: This is an increase of melanin deposits in the nail but not of pigment cells. Without treatment, a nail infection tends to worsen. Treatment can get rid of your pain and tenderness and help clear the infection.