Longitudinal striae

Longitudinal striae, also known as Beau's lines, are deep grooved lines that run from side to side on the fingernail or the toenail. They may look like indentations or ridges in the nail plate. This condition of the nail was named by a French physician, Joseph Honoré Simon Beau.

Etymology

The term "Longitudinal striae" is derived from Latin, where "longitudinalis" means lengthwise and "stria" means furrow or channel. The term "Beau's lines" is named after the French physician who first described this condition in 1846.

Causes

Longitudinal striae or Beau's lines are caused by a temporary cessation in cell division in the nail matrix. This can be caused by severe illness, malnutrition, or trauma to the nail bed. Certain systemic diseases, such as mumps, syphilis, and pneumonia, can also cause Beau's lines. Other potential causes include chemotherapy, carbon monoxide poisoning, and coronary occlusion.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of longitudinal striae is the appearance of deep grooved lines running from side to side on the fingernail or the toenail. The lines can be of varying depth and length, depending on the cause and duration of the underlying condition. In some cases, the nail may also become discolored or brittle.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of longitudinal striae is primarily based on the physical appearance of the nails. In some cases, a doctor may also take a nail biopsy to rule out other conditions. The doctor may also ask about the patient's medical history and any recent illnesses or injuries.

Treatment

Treatment for longitudinal striae primarily involves addressing the underlying cause. If the lines are caused by a systemic disease, treating the disease will often improve the appearance of the nails. In some cases, a doctor may recommend using a nail hardener or other topical treatments to improve the strength and appearance of the nails.

See also

• Nail anatomy
• Nail disease
• List of cutaneous conditions