How to Identify Onychauxis?

What is Onychauxis?

What is the thickening of the nail plate and/or abnormal outgrowth of the nail?

Answer:

Onychauxis is the condition characterized by a thickening of the nail plate and/or abnormal nail growth, which can be caused by trauma, infection, or systemic conditions.

The thickening of the nail plate and/or abnormal outgrowth of the nail is known as onychauxis.

The nail plate is the hard part of the nail, primarily made up of a protein called keratin. Growth occurs at the nail root, within a portion of the epidermis called the nail matrix. This area contains stem cells which divide to allow the nail to constantly grow.

The nail bed supports the nail plate on the fingers and toes, where it forms a back-support for handling small objects and provides protection. The nail fold grips the nail body on the sides, while the nail cuticle overlaps the nail plate to protect it from infection.

Onychauxis can be the result of trauma, infection, or systemic conditions and is characterized by an abnormal thickening of the nail plate, often accompanied by a change in the nail's color and texture.