What is another term for the lateral nail fold?

The lateral nail fold is commonly referred to as the sidewall. This term describes the area of skin that runs alongside the nail, providing protection to the nail bed and contributing to its shape and structure. Understanding the terminology related to the nail anatomy is essential for nail technicians and aestheticians, as proper identification of these structures aids in effective nail care and treatment.

The other terms in the question refer to different parts of the nail anatomy. For instance, the proximal nail fold is the fold of skin located at the base of the nail. The collateral nail fold is less commonly used, and may refer to certain aspects of the lateral nail folds in an anatomical sense. The distal nail fold, on the other hand, usually denotes the skin surrounding the free edge of the nail. Each of these terms has its specific meaning, but when discussing the lateral nail fold, the accurate and widely accepted term is sidewall.