Two months ago, my thumb nail began turning white, starting from the end and slowly proceeding to the base. I can't remember if this began after any trauma to the nail. It looked like a picture I saw of a nail with onycholyses. (sp?) A few days ago the nail started lifting up and then fell off. The area at the base of the nail (the half moon area) appears raised or swollen and is red. The skin bordering the base of the nail is also red, with what looks like a collection of little raised bumps or blisters. Do I need to see a dr.?

I would see your doctor or dermatologist. Usually a 'red' lunula signifies some sort of disease of the nail. Any change in the nail plate is cause for concern, so please see your doctor ASAP.