Despite a high frequency of atypical features, longitudinal melanonychia (LM) in children is associated with an exceedingly low rate of malignancy. LM — a pigmented band in the nail plate caused by ... USA Today: What do nails have to say about your health?

Context Explanation

Experts answer your FAQs. If your nails are brittle, thin and easily breakable, you may be wondering if it’s time to pay a visit to your dermatologist. While changes to the color, texture and shape of your nails aren’t always ... What do nails have to say about your health?

Insight Material

Experts answer your FAQs. A nail is a protective plate characteristically found at the tip of the digits (fingers and toes) of almost all primates (except for marmosets), corresponding to the claws in other tetrapod animals. Fingernails and toenails are made of a tough rigid protein called alpha-keratin, a polymer also found in the claws, hooves, and horns of vertebrates. Nails are structures at the tips of your fingers and toes that protect delicate tissues beneath them. Healthy fingernails and toenails have a smooth texture and are strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily tasks.

Final Conclusion

Your nails are part of your body’s outer layer, which healthcare providers call your integumentary system. Did you know that your fingernails can provide important information about your health? Read on to learn about how changes in the way your fingernails look could signal medical concerns that you shouldn't ignore. If you notice these changes, make an appointment with your health care team. Looking for the top nail trends of 2026? Start with this list of the hottest nail colors & designs forecasted by editors to be all the rage!