Nails are translucent sheets made of keratin that protect the tissues of both the fingers and toes. In general, the nails always have a homogeneous hue, usually pink. However, an alteration in its color can signify the presence of skin diseases, systemic pathologies, fungal infections, or injuries, among others.
The nails can present spots of different shades, acquiring a whitish, yellowish, brown, purple, or black coloration. Each color is due to a different origin; That is why in this FastlyHeal article, we talk about the causes of dark spots on the nails and the importance of going to a specialist before their appearance.
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Black spots on nails from bruising after injury
Suffering a blow and black spots to one or more fingers or toe skin can lead to the appearance of certain dark spots on the toenails melanoma pictures. They are called subungual hematomas and are characterized by the accumulation of blood under the nail itself, completely regular in these cases.
However, certain anticoagulant or cancer drug treatments and some autoimmune diseases can also cause these spots.
Nail spots due to eczema or atopic dermatitis
Also known as dermatitis, eczema is the name given to a series of atopic diseases characterized by itching, flaking, and skin inflammation. Generally, this condition is attributed to an alteration in the white blood cells that causes an immune reaction to some external substances and other factors that predispose the disease. The appearance of spots on the nails can therefore be due to eczema.
The spots will be white, and black can spread over several fingernails and toenails. If you suffer from these atopic conditions, it is essential to visit your dermatologist for proper control and treatment.
Brown spots on the nails from psoriasis
Another cause of nail stains is psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin that is characterized by evolving in the form of outbreaks with periods of remission and which produces the appearance of reddish spots covered by plates of peeling skin.
The causes that cause this condition can be genetic, immunological, psychological, or environmental. Despite especially attacking areas such as the scalp, lower back, or groin, it can also appear on the nails, although less frequently. If you suspect this condition, it is recommended to visit a dermatologist. In our article psoriasis: causes, symptoms, and treatment, we offer you more information about this pathology.
Fungal brown or yellow nails
Fungal infection is perhaps the main one among the most common causes of nail stains. The fungal infections are usually located between the nail and the flesh, feeding on the keratin and causing the infection. Frequenting humid public places, such as swimming pools or changing rooms, lack of hygiene, inadequate footwear, or lack of defenses increase the chances of suffering from nail fungus.
Despite being more common black spots on feet, they also appear on the hands and generally give the nails a yellowish or brown color. In the following article, you can see other causes of yellow nails.
Stains under the nails due to the presence of a tumor
A stain under the nail may be due to a mole or tumor, such as nail melanoma, a picture then more severe. It is identified because it is a vertical dark spot that goes from the base to the tip of the nail, with irregular pigmentation, and that usually appears suddenly. It can also be a simple point on the nail located in the area near the base, which also has an irregular shape.
These types of tumors affect the fingernails and toenails, appear in different shades of brown, are located near the cuticle, and commonly involve the adjacent nail tissue. The tumor can cause a nodule, slightly lifting the nail’s surface, even ulceration or bleeding. However, it is a rare disease in our population, so it should not be the first reason for suspicion of a nail stain.
Faced with the prolonged presence of a dark spot on the nail, it is best to go to a dermatologist who will examine the cause and can establish the appropriate treatment as appropriate.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Dark spots on nails: causes, we recommend that you enter our Skin, hair, and nails category.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.