Muehrcke's lines are distinctive markings that appear on the fingernails.
According to the provided information, Muehrcke lines are multiple transverse white linear bands parallel to the lunula of the fingernail. They are not actual structural changes in the nail plate itself, but rather represent an apparent leukonychia.
This appearance results from an abnormality in the vasculature of the nail bed underneath the nail. Because the lines are within the nail bed and not the nail plate, they do not move with the nail's growth. This is a key difference between Muehrcke's lines and other types of nail lines.
Key Characteristics
Here's a summary of the main features of Muehrcke's lines:
- Appearance: Multiple white lines or bands.
- Orientation: Transverse (across the nail).
- Location: Parallel to the lunula (the crescent-shaped white area at the base of the nail).
- Nature: Apparent, meaning they are visible through the nail but are not part of the nail itself.
- Cause: Related to issues in the nail bed's blood vessels.
The study of this condition, including its causes (etiology), how to identify it (evaluation), and how to manage or treat it (treatment), is an important area of medical review.
