Nail anatomy
Nail Anatomy
Nail anatomy refers to the structure and parts of the nail (pronounced: /neɪl/), a keratinous envelope covering the tips of the fingers and toes in humans. The term "nail" is derived from the Old English næġl, akin to the Old High German nagal, and the Old Norse nǫgl, all meaning 'nail'.
Structure
The nail consists of several parts, including the nail plate, the nail bed, the cuticle, the nail folds, the lunula, and the matrix.
- The nail plate (pronounced: /neɪl pleɪt/) is the hard and translucent portion, composed of keratin.
- The nail bed (pronounced: /neɪl bɛd/) is the skin beneath the nail plate.
- The cuticle (pronounced: /ˈkjuːtɪkəl/) is a layer of clear skin located along the bottom edge of the nail.
- The nail folds (pronounced: /neɪl foʊldz/) are the skin that frames and supports the nail on three sides.
- The lunula (pronounced: /ˈluːnʊlə/), or 'little moon', is the crescent-shaped whitish area of the nail bed.
- The matrix (pronounced: /ˈmeɪtrɪks/), also known as the Körner's layer, is the tissue (or germinal matrix) which the nail protects.
Functions
Nails serve multiple purposes. They assist in the manipulation of small objects, protect the distal phalanx, the fingertip, and the surrounding soft tissues from injuries. They also play a role in the precise movements of the distal digits through counter-pressure exerted on the pulp of the finger.
Related Terms
- Onycholysis: Separation of the nail from the nail bed
- Onychomycosis: Fungal infection of the nail
- Paronychia: Infection of the skin around the nail
- Hangnail: A small, torn piece of skin next to a fingernail or toenail
- Ingrown nail: A condition where the nail grows into the toe's flesh
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