Toenail

Toenail

A toenail is the hard, protective layer covering the distal end of the toes of humans and other primates. It is a type of nail, made of a tough protein called keratin. Toenails serve various functions, including protecting the sensitive tip of the toe, enhancing fine touch sensation, and aiding in the manipulation of small objects.

Structure

The toenail consists of several parts, including the nail plate, the nail bed, the cuticle, the nail folds, the lunula, and the matrix.

• The nail plate is the actual nail, made of translucent keratin. The pinkish appearance of the nail comes from the blood vessels underneath.
• The nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate. It contains both blood vessels and nerves.
• The cuticle is a layer of clear skin located along the bottom edge of the nail plate.
• The nail folds are the skin around the three sides of the nail.
• The lunula is the whitish half-moon shape at the base of the nail.
• The matrix is where the nail starts to grow. Damage to the matrix can cause the nail to grow irregularly.

Function

Toenails serve several functions. They protect the toe tips, enhance fine touch sensation, and aid in the manipulation of small objects. They also play a role in body heat regulation.

Health and disease

Toenails can be affected by various diseases and conditions, including onychomycosis (fungal infection), ingrown toenail, nail clubbing, nail disease, and nail injury. Regular care and hygiene can prevent many toenail problems.

See also

• Fingernail
• Nail (anatomy)
• Nail disease
• Podiatry

Toenail Resources
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