What does the presence of yellow-green spots on nails typically indicate?

The presence of yellow-green spots on the nails is typically indicative of a bacterial infection, specifically one caused by bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This type of infection often occurs under the nail plate or in areas with moisture, like surrounding a nail enhancement or near artificial nails. The discoloration can occur due to the pigment produced by these bacteria when they invade the nail bed, leading to a greenish hue along with possible odor and other signs of infection, such as tenderness or swelling. Proper identification and treatment are crucial to prevent further complications and restore nail health.

While other factors can cause discoloration in nails, such as fungal infections, allergies, or nutritional deficiencies, the specific yellow-green coloration is closely associated with bacterial infection, making it the correct choice in this context.