NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsHard
A client complains of persistent burning and itching on the skin around her nails, which worsens after she uses certain nail products. The skin appears red and inflamed, but there are no signs of infection. This reaction is most likely indicative of which condition?
- ABacterial Paronychia
- BAllergic Contact Dermatitis
- CPsoriasis
- DOnychomycosis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis is a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to an allergen, such as ingredients in nail products. The symptoms described (burning, itching, redness, inflammation without infection, worsening after product use) are classic signs.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Bacterial paronychia involves bacterial infection, typically with pus and severe pain, which is not described.
- C. Psoriasis can affect nails and skin but typically presents with silvery scales and specific nail pitting, which is not mentioned as the primary symptom.
- D. Onychomycosis is a fungal nail infection, which primarily affects the nail plate itself, not typically causing burning/itching of the surrounding skin without nail changes.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD)
Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD) is an inflammatory skin reaction caused by exposure to an allergen, often manifesting as redness, itching, burning, and swelling, typically delayed 24-72 hours after exposure.
- Delayed hypersensitivity reaction.
- Caused by specific allergens (e.g., acrylates in nail products).
- Symptoms: redness, itching, burning, swelling.
- Not contagious, no infection.
Memory trick: ALLERGENS cause ALLERGIC contact dermatitis; IRRITANTS cause IRRITANT contact dermatitis.