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What does Melanonychia refer to?

  1. Indented vertical lines down the nail

  2. Brown or black darkening of the nail

  3. Bitten nails

  4. Living skin at the base of the natural nail plate

The correct answer is: Brown or black darkening of the nail

Melanonychia refers to brown or black darkening of the nail. This can be caused by an increase of melanocytes, which are cells that produce pigment, within the nail bed. Indented vertical lines down the nail can indicate a condition called Beau's lines, while bitten nails are a habit that can cause damage to the nails. Living skin at the base of the natural nail plate refers to the cuticle, which is not related to Melanonychia.