It is similar in structure to human hair and skin and is made up of dead cells. This the largest part of the nail and is composed of laminated layers of keratin. Blood in the dermal capillaries of the nail bed give the nail its characteristic light pink color. It contributes to the keratin of the nail plate although it is to a lesser degree than the matrix. The nail bed lies underneath most of the nail plate and is a continuation of the skin around the nail. Poor circulation, inadequate nutrition and localized or systemic diseases can affect the growth of the new cells to make up the nail plate. As new cells grow, it pushes out the nail plate replacing it with new keratin at the proximal part of the nail plate that lies adjacent to the matrix. The matrix is the source of the cells that become the keratinized layers of the nail plate. While the word ‘nail’ is used to describe the nail bed, the entire human nail involves many other parts, some of which are not visible from the exterior. Therefore changes and defects in the nails may be indicative of certain systemic diseases. Like any part or organ of the human body, the condition of the fingernails and toenails are dependent on the general health status. In childhood, it takes the nail about 3 months to grow out completely while this may take up to 6 months in the elderly. The human nail is constantly growing and being removed by clipping or biting. The main purpose of the nails are to protect the fingers and toes, however, the fingernail also assists with certain physical activities in daily life. The human nail is a plate of keratin that lies on the tips of the fingers and toes.
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