The Structure of the Nail

Question 1

This is the part of the nail plate that extends beyond the fingertip

Answer 1

The Free Edge

Question 2

It is the layer of epidermis at the base of the nail, before the cuticle. It protects the matrix from physical damage

Answer 2

The Mantle

Question 3

This structure is formed from thickened stratum corneum (the horny layer) and is constantly being shed.

Answer 3

The Cuticle

Question 4

These run along the sides of the edge of the nail plate and move the nail slightly to act as a guide for the nail to grow straight

Answer 4

The Nail Grooves

Question 5

It protects the hyponychium at the edge of the nail bed. This is the part of the nail that can be filed into shape.

Answer 5

The Free Edge

Question 6

Lies at the edge of the nail bed and just beneath the free edge. It has a seal that protects the nail bed from infection.

Answer 6

Hyponychium

Question 7

The visible part of the nail and is made up of hundreds of layers

Answer 7

The Nail Plate

Question 8

This is the visible part of the matrix.

Answer 8

The Lunula

Question 9

The living part of the nail structure and is an extension of the stratum germinativum sometimes referred to as the root of the nail. It lies underneath the nail fold or mantle

Answer 9

The Matrix

Question 10

These are folds of skin that help to cushion the nail from external damage and keep the nail in place

Answer 10

Nail Walls

Question 11

This structure lies under the nail plate. It has a series of ridges and grooves

Answer 11

The Nail Bed

Question 12

The fold of skin which overlaps the lunula at the base of the nail plate. It forms a seal to prevent micro-organism from entering the surrounding tissues

Answer 12

The Eponychium

Question 13

This structure forms part of the cuticle and covers the outer portion and sides of the nail

Answer 13

The Perionychium