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    Nail ridges: Cause for concern?

    By Mayo Clinic Staff
    Feb. 04, 2025

    Are nail ridges in fingernails cause for concern?

    Vertical nail ridges are fairly common and nothing to worry about.

    Vertical nail ridges extend from the cuticle to the tip of the nail. With age, vertical nail ridges may become more numerous or prominent because of changes in cell turnover within the nail.

    If your fingernails change color or you develop horizontal nail ridges, consult your health care provider. These changes could indicate an underlying health condition.

    1. Dinulos JGH. Nail diseases. In: Habif's Clinical Dermatology. 7th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed April 12, 2022.
    2. Ball JW, et al. Skin, hair, and nails. In: Seidel's Guide to Physical Examination. 10th ed. Elsevier; 2023. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed April 12, 2022.

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