Red Flags:
- Stripe is only on one nail
- The line is wide or growing
- Pigment spills onto the cuticle or surrounding skin (Hutchinson’s sign)
Studies:
A review in The Lancet Oncology (2009) emphasized that melanonychia striata may be the earliest clinical sign of subungual melanoma, particularly if it is irregular or changes over time.
📚 Reference: Levit EK, et al. “Subungual melanoma: A review of the clinical signs and recommended management.” Lancet Oncology. 2009.
🔹 4. White Stripes (Muehrcke’s Lines)
What They Look Like:
White, paired lines running horizontally across the nail but not indented and disappear when you press on the nail.
What They Suggest:
These lines are usually a sign of low albumin levels, which may occur with:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Malnutrition
Studies:
Muehrcke’s lines were first described in 1956 and have since been associated with hypoalbuminemia (albumin < 2.2 g/dL), according to clinical findings published in the Archives of Dermatology.
📚 Reference: Muehrcke RC. “The finger-nails in chronic hypoalbuminemia.” Arch Dermatol. 1956.
🔹 5. Red or Purple Stripes (Splinter Hemorrhages)
What They Look Like:
Thin red or dark lines under the nail, resembling splinters.
What They May Indicate:
- Trauma to the nail
- Endocarditis (infection of the heart valves)
- Autoimmune conditions (e.g., lupus)
- Psoriasis
Studies:
A study in the British Journal of Dermatology explains that splinter hemorrhages, especially when seen in multiple nails and without trauma, may warrant investigation for systemic diseases like infective endocarditis.
📚 Reference: Ridha Z, et al. “Nail signs of systemic disease.” Br J Dermatol. 2009.
✅ When Should You Be Concerned?
Seek medical attention if:
- The lines appear suddenly or worsen quickly
- Only one nail is affected
- There are other symptoms (fatigue, swelling, fever, weight loss)
- The stripes are dark and wide
- You notice nail separation or pain
🟩 Tips for Healthy Nails
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in zinc, biotin, and protein
- Keep your nails hydrated
- Avoid excessive polish and harsh removers
- Protect nails from trauma
- Monitor nail changes regularly
🧠 Conclusion: Listen to Your Nails
Striped nails can be harmless—but they can also be the first warning sign of deeper health issues. Whether it’s a nutritional gap, an illness, or something more serious like melanoma or endocarditis, your nails are worth watching.
Pay attention, and when in doubt, consult your doctor or a dermatologist.
