NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
When performing a pedicure, a technician observes a client has an ingrown toenail, where the nail plate is growing into the skin of the nail fold, causing redness and pain. What is the technical term for this condition?
- AOnychocryptosis
- BOnychomadesis
- COnychogryphosis
- DOnychauxis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Onychocryptosis
Onychocryptosis is the medical term for an ingrown nail, characterized by the nail plate growing into the surrounding skin, often causing pain and inflammation.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Onychomadesis is the shedding or separation of the nail plate from the matrix.
- C. Onychogryphosis describes a thickened, curved, 'ram's horn' nail.
- D. Onychauxis is the overgrowth or thickening of the nail.
Onychocryptosis (Ingrown Nail)
Onychocryptosis, commonly known as an ingrown nail, occurs when the nail plate grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain, redness, and potential infection.
- Nail plate grows into surrounding skin.
- Commonly affects toenails.
- Can cause pain, inflammation, and infection.
Memory trick: OnychoCRYPtosis: The nail is 'cryptically' hidden in the skin.