Onychoptosis refers to what?

• A. Shelling of nails
• B. Shedding or falling off of nails
• C. Nail growth
• D. Nail lifting

Answer: (B)

Onychoptosis is the shedding or falling off of a nail. This happens when the nail plate becomes detached from the nail bed, usually due to trauma, inflammation, infection, or another underlying health issue. The detached portion can come off in one piece or in segments, while the nail bed remains intact and a new nail grows from the matrix over time. It’s about losing the nail from the bed, not about simply growing or lifting the nail. If it occurs, it’s important to protect the exposed area and seek medical evaluation to address any underlying cause, while the new nail gradually regrows.