NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsHard
A client has an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the nail matrix, leading to the nail plate becoming discolored, brittle, and eventually shedding. This specific inflammation of the nail matrix is known as:
- AOnycholysis
- BOnychia
- COnychomycosis
- DParonychia
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Onychia
Onychia is the specific term for inflammation of the nail matrix (or nail bed), which can lead to various nail abnormalities including discoloration, brittleness, and shedding. The other options describe different conditions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Onycholysis is the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed.
- C. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail.
- D. Paronychia is an infection or inflammation of the skin around the nail (the nail folds and perionychium).
Onychia
An inflammatory condition affecting the nail matrix, which can result in discoloration, brittleness, and shedding of the nail plate.
- Inflammation of the nail matrix.
- Can be caused by infection, trauma, or systemic disease.
- Often leads to nail plate dystrophy or loss.
Memory trick: Onychia is 'on' the matrix, causing 'ouch' to the nail.