NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
A client has a chronic habit of biting their nails, resulting in short, uneven nails and sometimes torn skin around the nail plate. Which term accurately describes this condition?
- AOnycholysis
- BOnychophagy
- COnychocryptosis
- DOnychauxis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Onychophagy
Onychophagy is the medical term for nail biting. The description of short, uneven nails and torn skin around the nail plate is a direct result of this habit.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Onycholysis is the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, usually starting at the free edge.
- C. Onychocryptosis is an ingrown nail, where the nail grows into the flesh of the nail groove.
- D. Onychauxis is the overgrowth or thickening of the nail plate, often due to trauma or systemic disease.
Onychophagy
The technical term for nail biting, a common nervous habit that can damage the nail plate and surrounding skin.
- Can lead to short, uneven nails.
- May cause torn cuticles and hangnails.
- Increases risk of infection due to open wounds.
Memory trick: Onycho- prefixes tell the nail's tale.