NIC Esthetician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
An esthetician is performing a skin analysis and observes a client with thickened, discolored, and brittle toenails, particularly on the great toe. The client reports occasional discomfort. This condition is most likely indicative of which of the following?
- AAthlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)
- BOnychomycosis
- CParonychia
- DOnycholysis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Onychomycosis
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail, characterized by thickening, discoloration (yellow, brown, white), and brittleness. It commonly affects toenails and can cause discomfort.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Athlete's Foot is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet, typically causing itching and scaling, not primarily nail changes.
- C. Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the nail, causing redness and swelling, not primarily nail discoloration and thickening.
- D. Onycholysis is the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, which may or may not include thickening or discoloration.
Onychomycosis
A common fungal infection of the nail bed, matrix, or plate, leading to discolored, thickened, and brittle nails.
- More common in toenails than fingernails.
- Can be caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds.
- Requires professional medical treatment, often prolonged.
Memory trick: Nails need care, especially from fungus.