What does onychomadesis refer to?

Onychomadesis is a medical term specifically describing the condition where the nail plate separates from the nail bed. This separation can be caused by various factors, including trauma, infections, or systemic health issues.

When the nail plate is detached from its underlying structure, it can lead to the loss of the nail. Understanding this condition is crucial for nail technicians because it may indicate underlying health problems or require specific care approaches when dealing with clients.

The other options, while related to nail health, reference different conditions: nail discoloration relates to changes in color due to various reasons, growth of the nail under pressure refers to how nails may grow in response to physical stress, and thickening of the nail pertains to a change in nail texture rather than separation. Thus, onychomadesis distinctly focuses on the detachment of the nail plate, making it an important term for nail care professionals.