What is the term for white spots on the nails?

Leukonychia is the term used to describe white spots on the nails. These spots can arise for various reasons, including minor trauma to the nail matrix, allergic reactions, or other underlying health conditions. Understanding this terminology is important for nail care professionals, as it helps in assessing clients' nail health and providing appropriate advice or treatment.

Other terms, while they may relate to nail and foot health, refer to different conditions. Athlete's foot refers to a fungal infection affecting the skin on the feet, typically between the toes. Pterygium is a condition involving the abnormal growth of skin which may affect the nail bed. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the nails themselves, leading to discoloration and possibly nail separation. Each of these conditions has its own characteristics and implications, but leukonychia specifically pertains to the white spots seen on nails.