Chapter 9: Nail Structure and Growth

Front

Thin layer of tissue that attaches the nail plate and the nail bed.

Back

bed epithelium

Front

Dead, colorless tissue attached to the natural nail plate.

Back

cuticle

Front

Living skin at the base of the natural nail plate that covers the matrix area.

Back

eponychium

Front

Part of the nail plate that extends over the tip of the finger or toe.

Back

free edge

Front

Slightly thickened layer of skin under the nail that lies between the fingertip and free edge of the natural nail plate.

Back

hyponychium

Front

Tough band of fibrous tissue that connects bones or holds an organ in place.

Back

ligament

Front

Visible part of the matrix that extends from underneath the living skin; it is the whitish, half-moon shape at the base of the nail.

Back

lunula

Front

Area where the nail plate cells are formed; this area is composed of matrix cells that produce the nail plate.

Back

matrix

Front

Portion of the living skin that supports the nail plate as it grows toward the free edge.

Back

nail bed

Front

Folds of normal skin that surround the natural nail plate.

Back

nail folds