What Causes A Brown Line On Right Leg Thumb Finger Under The Nail?

Posted on Wed, 13 Apr 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 13 Apr 2016 Answered on

Tue, 7 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I got a brown line on my right leg thumb finger under the nail. What is it and what to do to reduce it?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Photograph required

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the query.
Occasional pigmentation of nail is common.
Don't worry about that.
If possible upload a photograph of the involved area.
This will help me in giving a closer diagnosis.
Waiting for your response.
Thank you

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Deepak

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (40 minutes later)

I sent my thumb photo. Just check it sir

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (14 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Melanonychia

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the photograph.
It is called as melanonychia or in simple words pigmentation of a single nail.
It is harmless and doesn't require treatment however if you want it can be treated with tablet melano Tx. It is a combination of proanthocyanidin and mefanimic acid.
It is to be taken daily for 3 months and gives good response.
It might not be available over the counter.
Please meet a dermatologist and get it prescribed.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina