NIC Cosmetology Written (Theory) ExamNail Care and ServicesMedium
During a pre-service consultation, a client expresses concern about weak, brittle nails that frequently split. Upon examination, the technician observes longitudinal ridges and a dull surface. Which of the following conditions is most likely affecting the client's nails?
- AOnychocryptosis
- BOnychorrhexis
- COnychophagy
- DPterygium
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Onychorrhexis
Onychorrhexis is characterized by brittle nails with lengthwise ridges and a dull surface, often leading to splitting. Onychophagy is nail biting, pterygium is forward growth of the cuticle, and onychocryptosis is an ingrown nail.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Onychocryptosis is an ingrown nail, characterized by the nail growing into the surrounding skin, causing pain and inflammation, not weakness or splitting of the nail plate itself.
- C. Onychophagy refers to nail biting, which presents with chewed, often short and uneven nails, not necessarily longitudinal ridges or dullness.
- D. Pterygium involves the forward growth of the cuticle over the nail plate, not brittleness or splitting.
Onychorrhexis
A condition characterized by brittle nails with lengthwise ridges, often leading to splitting or cracking of the nail plate.
- Symptoms include brittleness, splitting, and longitudinal ridges.
- Can be caused by trauma, genetics, or dehydration.
- Often managed by moisturizing and gentle nail care.
Memory trick: Onycho-wreck-sis: My nails are a wreck, splitting and ridged!