NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
A nail technician is evaluating a client's nails and observes a series of tiny pits or depressions on the surface of several nail plates. The client mentions a history of autoimmune conditions. Which skin and nail disorder is most likely indicated by these pits?
- ALichen Planus
- BAlopecia Areata
- CEczema
- DPsoriasis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Psoriasis
Nail pitting is a classic sign of psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that affects skin cells and can manifest in the nails with various changes, including pitting, discoloration, and thickening.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Lichen Planus can cause nail thinning, longitudinal ridging, or total nail loss, but not typically pitting.
- B. Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition causing hair loss, and while it can sometimes affect nails, pitting is not its most common nail manifestation.
- C. Eczema can affect the nails, often causing discoloration or horizontal ridges, but pitting is not its primary characteristic.
Nail Pitting (Psoriasis)
Small, pinpoint depressions on the nail plate surface, a characteristic symptom often associated with psoriasis.
- Classic sign of psoriasis.
- Results from abnormal keratinization in the nail matrix.
- Can also be accompanied by oil spots or onycholysis.
Memory trick: Pits point to Psoriasis, remember the 'P' connection.