Splitting is a sign of something gone wrong with the formation process of the nail plate. A nail split can be from problems in either the nail bed or lunula. The problem causing the split can be inherited from your family, or it can be a recent development. Inherited cases are usually on symmetric sides of the body, and non-inherited causes are usually only on one side of your body. The type of split also gives you a lot of information. A split that is a straight clean line may be due to trauma or a tumor, while a split that is jagged but symmetric may be due to a nervous tick. You can also look for signs of scar damage to the lunula, cuticle, and surrounding area. It is a good idea to get evaluated by a dermatologist who knows nail disease well. — Dr. Rashid M. Rashid is a house staff dermatologist at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and director of the nail, hair, and skin disease division of the Morzak Center.
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