A nail exhibiting pitting or dimpling with brown spots is an indication of what condition?

A nail exhibiting pitting or dimpling, along with brown spots, is characteristic of psoriasis. This skin condition often affects the nails, causing changes in texture and color. Psoriasis on the nails can lead to pitting, which is indentations on the nail surface, and can also result in discoloration, such as brown spots, due to the changes in the nail matrix. The presence of these symptoms together specifically points to psoriasis rather than other conditions.

Fungal infections and nail fungus can cause discoloration and changes in nail texture, but they typically present differently, such as thickening, crumbling, or a distinct yellow or white color rather than brown spots. Allergic reactions can also lead to changes in the nail, but they are usually associated with more generalized inflammation rather than the specific pitting and discoloration associated with psoriasis. Therefore, when assessing these symptoms, psoriasis stands out as the condition most likely to cause the described nail characteristics.