Illinois Nail Technician Practice Exam

What is the primary effect of onychia?

1. Redness in the nail bed

2. Nail fungus spread

3. Nail plate separation

4. Increased nail growth

The correct answer is: Nail plate separation

Onychia is an inflammation of the nail matrix, which results in significant changes to the nail structure itself. The primary effect of onychia is nail plate separation, as this condition can cause the nail to lift away from the nail bed. This separation can be due to infection, trauma, or underlying health issues, and is a direct consequence of the inflammation affecting the integrity of the nail matrix. While redness in the nail bed, nail fungus spread, and increased nail growth can occur in various conditions related to nails, they are not the primary effects of onychia. Redness might be present due to inflammation, but it does not encompass the main characteristic of the condition. Nail fungus typically causes different symptoms and would not be considered a primary effect of onychia. Increased nail growth could happen in response to various stimuli or conditions, but it is not directly linked to the inflammation caused by onychia. Thus, the focus remains on the separation of the nail plate as the hallmark effect of this condition.