MEDICAL

 The nails are a critical part of a dermatologic exam. Distorted, discolored or otherwise unsightly nails are common problems experienced by people of all ages. Damage to the nail may be caused by an injury, fungal disease, nutritional deficiency, or other skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. It may also be indicative of an underlying medical condition. Viral warts may occur in, around, or under the nail plate and may result in nail deformity. Myxoid cysts can occur towards the end of the finger and lead to a longitudinal depression in the nail. Uncommonly, skin cancers (including melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma) can occur in the nail plate area. Any non-healing, growing, bleeding or discolored nail area should be shown to your doctor.