White toenails are a relatively common problem and can have a variety of causes. Fungal infections are perhaps the most common cause of this discoloration, although physical trauma or the use of certain chemicals can also contribute to their development. Kidney failure, liver dysfunction, and chemotherapy have also been known to turn the toenails partially or completely white.
Onychomycosis is a medical term used to describe a fungal infection that affects the nails. When white toenails are a result of this type of infection, the discoloration normally appears as streaks across the nail, especially on the sides. Additional symptoms of onychomycosis may include thickening or crumbling of the affected nail or a loosening of the toenail from the surrounding skin.
Physical trauma is another common cause for the appearance of white toenails. Trauma to the nail may occur as a result of accidental injury, such as dropping something on the affected toe, or the use of improper pedicure techniques. Damage to the toenails also increases the chances of developing a fungal infection. In some cases, chemicals present in cosmetics like nail polish or nail polish remover can also lead to nail discoloration.
Kidney failure, liver dysfunction, and some hereditary illnesses can cause white toenails in some people. If there has been no physical injury and no fungal infection is present, the supervising physician will often order a series of blood tests to check the functioning of the vital organs of the body. Depending on the situation, the nails may regain their natural coloration after the originating medical condition has been successfully treated. In severe cases, dialysis or organ transplantation may be required in order to return the body to a healthy state.
Some medications have been shown to cause white toenails, especially chemotherapy drugs that are used to treat serious medical conditions such as cancer. Certain antibiotics, particularly those belonging to a class of drugs known as sulphonamides, list the development of white nails on the fingers or toes as a possible side effect. The only way to know for sure what is causing specific instances of white toenails is to consult a doctor so that the proper tests can be ordered and the most appropriate treatment options can be discussed.