Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Prepare for the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society Exam with quizzes, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you get ready for your exam!

Practice this question and more.


What is the medical term for the inflammation of cells in the nail matrix?

  1. Onychomycosis

  2. Onychia

  3. Onychocryptosis

  4. Paronychia

The correct answer is: Onychia

The inflammation of cells in the nail matrix is referred to as onychia. This condition specifically involves the nail matrix, which is the tissue under the base of the nail that produces new nail cells. When inflammation occurs in this area, it can lead to symptoms such as pain, redness, and swelling, and it may affect nail growth or health. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails, while onychocryptosis refers to ingrown toenails. Paronychia is the inflammation of the tissue surrounding the nail, usually due to infection. These conditions do not specifically indicate inflammation within the nail matrix itself, which is why onychia is the correct term for inflammation in that area.