What term is used for the shedding of the nail plate?

The term used for the shedding of the nail plate is "onychomedesis." This condition refers specifically to the detachment of the nail plate from the nail bed, leading to the complete or partial shedding of the entire nail. Understanding this term is important because it relates to various conditions that may affect nail health, including trauma, infection, or other underlying health issues.

Onycholysis, on the other hand, refers to the detachment of the nail plate from the nail bed, but it does not necessarily involve shedding; rather, it can represent a separation that might not lead to the nail falling off completely. Onychia refers to inflammation of the nail matrix, which can also affect nail health but does not specifically describe shedding. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails and does not pertain to the shedding of the nail plate. Recognizing the distinct definitions of these terms is crucial for understanding nail disorders and providing appropriate care.