Possible Skin Conditions

Here you will find information about conditions that can affect the fingernails in adults. The nails are a unique part of the body, made up of a hard substance called keratin. They are subject to several kinds of damage. Onychomycosis, commonly known as nail lifting, is an infection that causes the nails to become brittle and discolored. Some conditions affecting the nails have multiple causes. Onycholysis, commonly known as a fungal nail infection, is the separation of the nail from the nail bed. This can be the result of infections, chronic skin conditions, or chemical exposure. Onychoschizia, commonly known as nail splitting, is the splitting of the nail into layers and is often the result of frequent handwashing or exposure to chemicals.