NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsHard
A technician is performing a service and notices that a client has a condition where the nail plate has separated from the nail bed, starting from the free edge and progressing inward. There are no signs of infection or inflammation. What is this condition called?
- AOnychia
- BOnychoptosis
- COnychomycosis
- DOnycholysis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Onycholysis
Onycholysis is the medical term for the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, typically starting at the free edge or sides and progressing toward the lunula. It can be caused by trauma, allergic reactions, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions. The absence of infection helps distinguish it from other conditions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Onychia is inflammation of the nail matrix, not separation of the plate from the bed.
- B. Onychoptosis is the periodic shedding of one or more nails, not separation from the free edge.
- C. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail, which would likely show signs of infection.
Onycholysis
The loosening or separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, usually beginning at the free edge.
- Can be caused by trauma, allergic reactions, or systemic diseases.
- Often appears as a white or yellowish area under the nail.
- Usually painless unless infection occurs.
Memory trick: Onycho-LYSIS means 'loosening' of the nail.