What is the appearance of a nail with melanonychia?

A nail exhibiting melanonychia presents as a band of pigment that extends from the base to the free edge. This condition refers to a brown or black discoloration of the nail, which can be caused by various factors, including an increase in melanin production. The presence of a longitudinal band of pigmentation can indicate a benign condition or, in some cases, be associated with more serious underlying issues, such as melanoma.

Understanding the appearance of melanonychia is crucial for nail technicians as it allows them to recognize changes in the nails that may require professional medical evaluation. Other choices describe different nail conditions: a dark spot at the nail tip might indicate trauma or a localized issue, an elevation at the cuticle area suggests a different type of nail disorder such as a cyst or infection, and rough texture could be indicative of other nail health problems. Thus, recognizing the distinct characteristics associated with melanonychia helps professionals identify and respond appropriately to clients' nail health concerns.