Nail Anatomy & Disorders Flashcards

Which layer of the nail plate is produced primarily by the proximal portion of the matrix?

Answer: Dorsal (upper) layer

The proximal matrix generates the harder dorsal layer of the nail plate, while the distal matrix produces the softer ventral layer.

Terry's nails, characterized by white opacification of most of the nail with a distal pink or brown band, are associated with:

Answer: Hepatic cirrhosis and systemic disease

Terry's nails are classically associated with hepatic cirrhosis, heart failure, and diabetes.

Koilonychia, or spoon nails, is most commonly associated with:

Answer: Iron-deficiency anemia

Koilonychia produces concave, spoon-shaped nails and is strongly associated with iron-deficiency anemia.

The nail plate is composed mainly of:

Answer: Hard keratin

The nail plate consists primarily of hard (alpha) keratin, making it firm and protective.

Paronychia is defined as inflammation of the:

Answer: Periungual soft tissue (nail fold)

Paronychia is infection or inflammation of the skin surrounding the nail, most often caused by bacteria or Candida.

Which nail disorder is characterized by increased nail plate curvature causing the fingertip to appear rounded and bulbous?

Answer: Clubbing (digital clubbing)

Clubbing involves loss of the normal angle between the nail plate and proximal fold, with bulbous fingertip enlargement, linked to cardiopulmonary disease.

Leukonychia punctata refers to:

Answer: Small white spots within the nail plate

Leukonychia punctata presents as discrete white spots in the nail plate, typically caused by minor matrix trauma.