Nails are comprised of hardened, living skin cells and may be affected by illness and physical ailments. One sign of a possible problem is a change in the color of the toenail. Discoloration of the toenails may be due to a variety of reasons. Once the underlying cause is determined, treatment can be administered to restore normal color to the nail.
Nail Fungus
A fungal infection causes a toenail to become discolored, according to MayoClinic.com. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, fungal nail infections occur in approximately 12 percent of all Americans. The nail usually turns a dark color from dirt or debris that has become trapped underneath the nail. Other symptoms of fungal infection include a foul smell, thickened nail, crumbled nail or a dull toenail that is misshapen. According to MayoClinic.com, toenail fungal infections are typically caused by fungi called dermatophytes, but they may also be caused by yeasts and molds. Toenails are especially susceptible to fungal infections, because toes are usually encased in shoes. This environment provides the fungus with a warm, dark place to grow. Treating fungal nail infections involves oral medications, such as terbinafine and itraconazole; topical antifungal medications; antifungal nail lacquer, such as ciclopirox; or surgery.
Injury
Injury to the nail may cause discoloration. Mild trauma to the nail can cause white spots to form on the nail, says the American Academy of Dermatology. These white spots usually grow out with the nail and are not serious. If many white spots appear with no clear cause, a medical examination may be needed, as this may signal infection. The American Academy of Dermatology also describes a splinter hemorrhage. This occurs when the nail has sustained an injury that causes a reddish brown line under the nail where the blood vessels have been damaged. Some medical conditions may also cause these hemorrhages, so a dermatologist should examine any nails with this condition.
Medications
The Merck Manual states that some medications cause nail discoloration; this typically resolves once the medication is stopped and the nail grows out. Drugs that may alter nail color include chemotherapy drugs, such as bleomycin; antibiotics, such as minocycline; arsenic poisoning; silver, from occupational absorption or supplements; and the drug AZT for treatment of human immunodeficiency virus. Effects on nails include a bluish-black color, white bands, brown tints and gray coloration.
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