Nail Anatomy: Parts, Structures, Functions, and More

Overview

• Nails are protective plates at the tips of fingers and toes, composed of a protein called keratin.
• Healthy nails are smooth in texture and consistent in color.
• Changes in nails may indicate health issues.

Key Components of Nail Anatomy

• Nail Plate: Hardest, most visible part made of keratin.
• Nail Matrix: Located at the base; responsible for new nail cell growth. Visible part known as lunula.
• Nail Folds: Soft tissue that protects nail edges.
• Mantle: Skin covering the nail matrix and base.
• Nail Bed: Supports healthy nail growth underneath the nail plate.
• Cuticle: Protects nail matrix from irritants along with nail folds.
• Hyponychium: Skin under the free nail edge.
• Onychodermal Band: Tissue seal at the finger/toe tip, protective.

Nail Functions

• Protection: Shields fingers and toes from injury and infection.
• Strengthening: Aids in gripping objects.
• Sensation: Nerve network under nails contributes to touch sensitivity.
• Fine Motor Skills: Assists in tasks like separating pages, scratching, and picking up items.

Common Nail Diseases

• Onycholysis: Nail plate lifts from the nail bed.
• Paronychia: Nail infection.
• Nail Pitting: Small depressions on the nail surface.
• Onychocryptosis: Ingrown toenail.
• Yellow Nail Bed Syndrome: Nails become yellow.
• Koilonychia: Nails curve like a spoon.

Summary

• Nails are essential for protection, fine motor skills, and sensation.
• Any changes in nail health should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out diseases.

References

• Medical sources include peer-reviewed studies, academic institutions, and medical journals.

Additional Resources

• For further information, consult dermatology resources linked in the main article.

This summary is based on the article "Nail Anatomy: Parts, Structures, Functions, and More" from Medical News Today, medically reviewed by Cynthia Cobb.