Medical Words: Onych/o Terms

Nail-Related Medical Terminology

• Onychomalacia: Refers to the softening of nails, which may indicate underlying health issues or nutritional deficiencies.

• Onychoma: A tumor that forms in or around a nail, potentially requiring medical evaluation for diagnosis and treatment.

• Onychoid: Describes any structure or condition that resembles a nail, often used in anatomical or pathological contexts.

• Onychophagy: The act of biting one's nails, which can lead to various health and cosmetic issues.

• Onychosis: A broad term for any abnormal condition affecting the nails, encompassing changes in texture, color, or growth pattern.

• Onychopathy: Indicates a disease specifically related to the nails, often reflecting systemic health issues.

• Onychalgia: Refers to pain in the nails, which can be caused by injuries, infections, or other medical conditions.

• Onychomycosis: A fungal infection affecting the nails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and potential detachment if untreated.

• Onycholysis: Characterized by the loosening or detachment of a nail from its nail bed, often resulting from trauma or an underlying health condition.

• Onychitis: An inflammation occurring in the nail or nail bed, which can be caused by infections or irritants.

• Onychootomy: A surgical procedure involving an incision made into a nail, typically used for therapeutic purposes.

• Onychectomy: The surgical removal of a nail, often performed in cases of severe nail disease or injury.

• Onychogenic: Related to or involved in the formation of nails, often referenced in developmental or pathological discussions.

• Onychocryptosis: Known as an ingrown nail, this condition occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and potential infection.