Why Are My Fingernails Extremely White?

Some people may have nails that appear particularly white. This could be due to a fungal infection of the nails, which can manifest as yellowing, thickening, hollowing out, and powdery symptoms. Sometimes, the surrounding skin may also be affected, resulting in blisters, itching, and scaling. However, there may be other causes for nails appearing particularly white.

There are various reasons for nails to appear white. One is genetic white nails, which can be present from birth and manifests as complete whitening of the nails on both hands and feet. Additionally, white nails may be associated with certain internal illnesses. In individuals with chronic blood loss, the nails may lose their luster, and the presence of white vertical stripes on the nail surface may indicate low hemoglobin levels.

Another possible cause is fungal nail infections, which can lead to nails appearing white. These infections are caused by fungi infecting the nail bed and can manifest as changes in nail color (white, yellow, or black), thickening, separation, debris accumulation, and damage. Culturing and microscopic examination of the fungus can identify the causative spores or hyphae, and antifungal medications can be prescribed for treatment.

Dermatophytic onychomycosis refers to a fungal infection caused by dermatophytes, yeast, and non-dermatophyte molds that invade the nail plate and/or nail bed. It is a source of superficial fungal infection, and the lesions caused by dermatophytes are referred to as onychomycosis. Individuals with nail trauma, diabetes, weakened immunity, malnutrition, advanced age, and those with a habit of nail beautification are more susceptible to this infection.

Symptoms of dermatophytic onychomycosis can vary. Initially, there may be yellowing, thickening, hollowing out, or powdery changes in the nail plate. Sometimes, the surrounding skin may also be affected, resulting in blisters, scaling, and itching. The infection can spread from one nail to another and can affect a single nail or multiple nails. However, the fungus itself is only transmitted under specific conditions. In severe cases, both feet and one hand (two feet and one hand) may be affected by fungal infections. If clinical conditions permit, fungal culture of the nails can be performed for confirmation, which is more accurate.