Nail Plate

Definition

The nail plate is the visible part of the nail that covers the upper surface of the fingertip or toe. It is a hardened, translucent structure made of keratin that protects the delicate skin underneath and enhances the sensory function of the digits.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The nail plate is composed of layers of dead, flattened keratinocytes that are continuously replaced as the nail grows.
2. The thickness and curvature of the nail plate can provide important clues about an individual's overall health and certain medical conditions.
3. The nail plate protects the delicate skin and underlying structures of the fingertips and toes, acting as a barrier against external forces and infection.
4. The nail plate enhances the sensory function of the digits by providing a firm surface that allows for improved tactile sensation and grip.
5. The growth rate of the nail plate varies, with fingernails typically growing faster than toenails, and the rate can be affected by factors such as age, gender, and season.

Review Questions

• Describe the structure and composition of the nail plate.
  • The nail plate is a hardened, translucent structure made of layers of dead, flattened keratinocytes. It is composed primarily of keratin, a protein that provides strength and rigidity to the nail. The nail plate is continuously replaced as new cells are produced in the nail matrix, the area beneath the skin at the base of the nail.
• Explain the functions of the nail plate.
  • The nail plate serves several important functions: 1) It protects the delicate skin and underlying structures of the fingertips and toes, acting as a barrier against external forces and infection. 2) It enhances the sensory function of the digits by providing a firm surface that allows for improved tactile sensation and grip. 3) The thickness and curvature of the nail plate can provide important clues about an individual's overall health and certain medical conditions.
• Analyze the factors that can influence the growth rate of the nail plate.
  • The growth rate of the nail plate can be affected by various factors, including age, gender, and season. Fingernails typically grow faster than toenails, and the growth rate may slow down as an individual ages. Environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, can also influence nail growth. Additionally, certain medical conditions, medications, and nutritional deficiencies can disrupt the normal growth and development of the nail plate.

Related terms

Nail Bed: The nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate that supports and nourishes the growth of the nail.

Nail Matrix: The nail matrix is the area beneath the skin at the base of the nail where new nail cells are continuously produced, causing the nail to grow outward.

Lunula: The lunula is the crescent-shaped, whitish area visible at the base of the nail plate, which corresponds to the visible part of the nail matrix.