Longitudinal erythronychia

Longitudinal erythronychia
Synonyms
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Red streaks in the nail bed
Complications
Onset
Duration
Types	N/A
Causes	Various, including benign and malignant conditions
Risks
Diagnosis	Clinical diagnosis, biopsy
Differential diagnosis	Melanonychia, onychomycosis, subungual hematoma
Prevention
Treatment	Depends on underlying cause
Medication
Prognosis	Varies with cause
Frequency
Deaths	N/A

Longitudinal erythronychia is a condition characterized by red streaks running longitudinally down the nails. It is often associated with various underlying conditions, including melanoma, lichen planus, and Darier's disease.

Causes

Longitudinal erythronychia can be caused by a variety of conditions. These include:

• Melanoma: This is a type of skin cancer that can cause red streaks on the nails.
• Lichen planus: This is a condition that causes inflammation and irritation of the skin, hair, and nails.
• Darier's disease: This is a genetic disorder that affects the skin, nails, and mucous membranes.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of longitudinal erythronychia is the presence of red streaks running down the nails. These streaks may be accompanied by other symptoms, depending on the underlying cause. For example, if the condition is caused by melanoma, there may also be changes in the color or shape of the nail.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of longitudinal erythronychia typically involves a physical examination of the nails. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment

Treatment for longitudinal erythronychia depends on the underlying cause. If the condition is caused by melanoma, treatment may involve surgery to remove the affected nail and surrounding tissue. If the condition is caused by lichen planus or Darier's disease, treatment may involve medications to manage symptoms.

See also

• Nail disease
• Melanoma
• Lichen planus
• Darier's disease