Differential Diagnosis for White Spots on the Nails
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Leukonychia: This condition is characterized by the appearance of white spots or patches on the nails due to air bubbles or other abnormalities in the nail plate. It is often caused by minor trauma to the nail, such as hitting the nail against a hard surface, and is usually benign.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Nail fungus (Onychomycosis): Fungal infections can cause white spots or patches on the nails, especially if the infection is caused by a yeast or mold.
- Nail psoriasis: Psoriasis can cause white spots or patches on the nails, as well as other nail changes such as pitting or thickening.
- Nail trauma: Trauma to the nail, such as a blow to the finger, can cause white spots or patches to appear on the nail.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): SLE is an autoimmune disease that can cause a variety of symptoms, including white spots on the nails. While it is not a common cause of white spots on the nails, it is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Kidney disease: Kidney disease can cause a range of nail changes, including white spots or patches, due to the buildup of toxins in the body.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Tuberous sclerosis: This is a rare genetic disorder that can cause a variety of skin and nail changes, including white spots on the nails.
- Darier's disease: This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the skin and nails, causing white spots or patches on the nails, as well as other symptoms such as skin lesions and keratotic papules.