NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsHard
A client has an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the nail matrix, leading to potential shedding of the nail plate. Which of the following nail conditions is characterized by inflammation of the nail matrix with possible nail loss?
- AOnychophagy
- BOnycholysis
- CParonychia
- DOnychia
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Onychia
Onychia is specifically defined as inflammation of the nail matrix, often accompanied by pus formation and shedding of the nail plate. The other options describe different nail conditions or related structures.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Onychophagy is the habit of nail biting, not an inflammatory condition of the matrix.
- B. Onycholysis is the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed, not inflammation of the matrix.
- C. Paronychia is inflammation of the skin fold around the nail, not primarily the matrix itself.
Onychia
An inflammatory condition affecting the nail matrix, which can lead to the formation of pus, redness, swelling, and potentially the shedding or deformity of the nail plate.
- Inflammation of the nail matrix.
- Can result in pus formation.
- May cause nail plate shedding or deformity.
- Often associated with infection or underlying medical conditions.
Memory trick: OnychIA is the 'I' in inflammation of the mATRix.