What are the indented vertical lines down the nail plate that may be caused by illness or injury called?

The term used to describe the indented vertical lines down the nail plate that may occur as a result of illness or injury is "furrows." Furrows are defined as grooves or indentations that typically run vertically along the nail plate, often indicating past trauma or health issues that have affected nail development.

These features can serve as indicators for nail technicians and health professionals regarding the overall well-being of the individual. Recognizing such nail characteristics is important in nail technology as it helps in assessing nail health and making informed decisions about nail care and treatment.

While "ridges" may also refer to raised lines on the surface, they do not specifically denote indentations caused by underlying health issues. "Runouts" doesn't relate to nail health terminology, and "Lines of Beau," while referring to a different nail condition indicating growth disruption, do not describe vertical indentations specifically. Understanding these terms aids in properly identifying nail conditions during practice.