How to manage dark lines on toenails and fingernails?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had a dark line in my toenail for as long as I can remember, since childhood, and I never thought much of it. Years later, a similar line appeared in my fingernail.

I am wondering if this could be a sign of something serious or if I should be concerned about it?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome you to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

I have seen your query and examined your given picture. (attachment removed to protect patient identity). It seems you have developed melanonychia. The cause of this are many such as inflammatory nail diseases like lichen planus, racial, nevus in nailbed and rarely melanoma. You need to go for nail biopsy for confirmation.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have seen your query. Here are a few options for you:

You can take tablet Biotin 10 mg once daily for three months. It can treat the nutrients aspects too.
Biopsy will rule out other possible causes.

And accordingly, treatment can be advised.

Please feel free to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.