What is the primary cause of onychorrhexis?

What is the primary cause of onychorrhexis?

• A. Excessive moisture exposure
• B. Trauma or injury
• C. Fungal infections
• D. Allergic reactions

Answer: (B)

Onychorrhexis is characterized by longitudinal ridges or splitting of the nails, which is often a result of trauma or injury to the nail matrix. This can be caused by mechanical forces, such as aggressive filing, hit nails against hard surfaces, or other physical stressors that damage the structure of the nail. When the nail matrix sustains injury, it affects the production of keratin, the primary protein in nails, leading to the structural changes observed in onychorrhexis. This condition is distinct from other nail disorders that may be linked to moisture levels, fungal infections, or allergic reactions, which do not directly cause the splitting or ridging characteristic of onychorrhexis. Understanding the primary cause of this condition can help nail technicians provide appropriate care and recommendations to clients experiencing this issue.

Onychorrhexis is characterized by longitudinal ridges or splitting of the nails, which is often a result of trauma or injury to the nail matrix. This can be caused by mechanical forces, such as aggressive filing, hit nails against hard surfaces, or other physical stressors that damage the structure of the nail.

When the nail matrix sustains injury, it affects the production of keratin, the primary protein in nails, leading to the structural changes observed in onychorrhexis. This condition is distinct from other nail disorders that may be linked to moisture levels, fungal infections, or allergic reactions, which do not directly cause the splitting or ridging characteristic of onychorrhexis. Understanding the primary cause of this condition can help nail technicians provide appropriate care and recommendations to clients experiencing this issue.