What do white spots on the nails signify?

White spots on the nails, known as leukonychia, typically indicate a condition where the nail matrix is affected, leading to discolored spots. These spots can occur for various reasons, such as minor injuries to the nail during its growth phase or allergic reactions to nail products. Leukonychia can manifest as small white spots that show up as the nail grows out. It is important to differentiate this condition from other issues that may affect nail appearance, as leukonychia itself is usually harmless and often resolves on its own as the nail continues to grow.

Other conditions like injury or trauma may produce white spots, but they are not specifically defined as leukonychia. Similarly, infections typically present with different signs, such as discoloration or changes in nail texture, rather than isolated white spots. Normal nail growth doesn’t usually feature white spots unless it is an indication of minor trauma or another underlying issue, which is what leukonychia addresses. Thus, identifying white spots as leukonychia is the most accurate understanding of this nail manifestation.