NIC Nail Technician Written ExamScientific ConceptsMedium
A technician is evaluating a client's nails for a gel polish application. The client has exceptionally thin, flexible nails that tend to bend easily without breaking. Which nail plate condition does this describe?
- AOnychogryphosis
- BOnychia
- COnychomalacia
- DPterygium
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Onychomalacia
Onychomalacia is a condition characterized by abnormally soft and flexible nails, which often bend easily. This aligns with the client's description.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Onychogryphosis describes a thickened, curved, 'ram's horn' nail.
- B. Onychia is an inflammation of the nail matrix.
- D. Pterygium is the forward growth of the eponychium over the nail plate, or the hyponychium overgrowing the free edge.
Onychomalacia (Soft Nails)
Onychomalacia is a condition characterized by abnormally soft and flexible nails that tend to bend easily, often due to internal factors or excessive moisture.
- Nails are unusually soft and flexible.
- Bend easily without breaking.
- Can be caused by internal health factors or external over-hydration.
Memory trick: OnychoMALACIA means 'mal' (bad) and 'soft' nails. OnychoRRHEXIS means 'wrecked' and brittle.