Question

On examination, a white discoloration appearing on nails was noted. This is consistent with __________.

1) Leukonychia
2) Onycholysis
3) Paronychia
4) Onychomycosis

Answer 1

The white discoloration on the nails is consistent with leukonychia, which is caused by trauma to the nail matrix and is typically benign.

Step-by-step explanation:

The white discoloration appearing on nails, as described in the question, is consistent with leukonychia. Leukonychia is typically characterized by white spots or streaks on the nails and is commonly caused by minor injuries to the nail matrix, which is the tissue that the nail protects and grows from. These spots are often benign and usually resolve over time as the nail grows out.

Onycholysis refers to the separation of the nail from the underlying nail bed, which can result in a white appearance, but often there is more of a translucent or yellowish color associated with it. The detachment could be due to various causes, including injury, infection, or systemic conditions. Paronychia is an infection of the nail fold that includes symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain, rather than a white discoloration of the nail itself. Finally, onychomycosis refers to a fungal infection of the nail, characterized by thickening, yellowing, and brittleness of the nail plate.To conclude, leukonychia is the likely cause of the white discoloration of the nails when the discoloration is specifically white and does not include other symptoms such as nail thickening or detachment.