In the early stages of a bacterial infection on the nail plate, what sign is typically observed?

• A. Red Lesion
• B. White Spot
• C. Yellow-Green Spot
• D. Black Speck

Answer: (C)

Bacteria on the nail plate often show a color change as an early clue. The first sign is a yellow-green spot, caused by bacterial pigments (notably from Pseudomonas) that give the nail a greenish-yellow tint. This specific discoloration points to a bacterial issue more than to trauma, inflammation, or fungal changes. Red areas would suggest inflammation, a white spot is typically from minor trauma or leukonychia, and a black speck is usually a bruise or subungual hematoma. So the yellow-green spot is the telltale early sign of a bacterial nail infection.