graf, n. a representation by means of lines, exhibiting the nature of the law according to which some phenomena vary: -graph is used as a terminal in many Greek compounds to denote an agent which writes, &c., as telegraph, seismograph, or the thing written, as in autograph, &c.âadjs. Graphâ²ic, -al, pertaining to writing, describing, or delineating: picturesquely described: vivid.âadv. Graphâ²ically. âns.
Separation of the nail from the nail bed, medically known as onycholysis, is a common condition that results in a white appearance of the affected part of the nail. Fingernail or toenail separation can have numerous causes but is typically related to trauma or a fungal infection of the nails.
Injury: 1  Crushing the base of the nail or the nail bed may cause a permanent deformity. 2  Chronic picking or rubbing of the skin behind the nail can cause median nail dystrophy, which gives a lengthwise split or ridged appearance of the thumbnails. 3  Long-term exposure to moisture or nail polish can cause nails to peel and become brittle. Infection: Fungus or yeast cause changes in the color, texture, and shape of the nails. Bacterial infection may cause a change in nail color or painful areas of infection under the nail or in the surrounding skin. Severe infections may cause nail loss. Paronychia is an infection around the nailfold and cuticle. Viral warts may cause a change in the shape of the nail or ingrown skin under the nail. Certain infections (especially of the heart valve) may cause red streaks in the nail bed (splinter hemorrhages). Diseases: