Beau's lines

Last reviewed 11/2022

Beau's lines are transverse ridges in the nail plate that form as a result of temporary interference of cell division in the proximal nail matrix (1).

It may be caused by

  • trauma
  • chemotherapeutic agents
  • systemic illnesses such as myocarditis, peripheral vascular disease, uncontrolled diabetes
  • febrile illnesses – scarlet fever, pneumonia (2).

The condition is usually self limiting.

 

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