MATRIX UNGUIS Meaning and
Definition
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"Matrix unguis" is a Latin term that is commonly used in anatomy and dermatology to refer to the nail matrix. The nail matrix is an important structure that is located at the base of the fingernail or toenail. It serves as the primary site of nail plate growth and contributes to the formation of the nail structure.
Specifically, the matrix unguis is situated underneath the proximal nail fold, extending backward to the lunula (the white semilunar area at the base of the nail). It is responsible for producing the nail plate cells, which are composed of keratinocytes. These specialized cells divide and grow towards the free edge of the nail, leading to the continuous development of the nail plate.
The matrix unguis is made up of layers of actively dividing cells, including the germinal matrix (the most proximal part that contains the actively dividing cells) and the sterile matrix (the region where the cells mature and undergo keratinization). The germinal matrix provides nutrients and essential proteins necessary for the formation and growth of the nail, while the sterile matrix aids in the hardening and durability of the nail plate.
Furthermore, the health and condition of the matrix unguis play a vital role in the appearance and strength of the nail. Any damage or disruption to this structure can result in various nail-related issues, such as ridges, deformities, or even nail loss. Thus, understanding the role and functioning of the matrix unguis proves significant in diagnosing and treating nail disorders.
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Nail-bed, the area of the corium on which the nail rests; it is extremely sensitive and presents numerous longitudinal ridges on its surface according to some anatomists the nail bed is the portion covered by the body of the nail, the nail matrix being only the part on which the root of the nail rests.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MATRIX UNGUIS
- natrix unguis
- katrix unguis
- jatrix unguis
- mztrix unguis
- mstrix unguis
- mwtrix unguis
- mqtrix unguis
- marrix unguis
- mafrix unguis
- magrix unguis
- mayrix unguis
- ma6rix unguis
- ma5rix unguis
- mateix unguis
- matdix unguis
- matfix unguis
- mattix unguis
- mat5ix unguis
- mat4ix unguis
- matrux unguis
Etymology of MATRIX UNGUIS
The word "matrix unguis" has Latin origins.
"Matrix" in Latin means "womb" or "origin", which also refers to the part of the nail where it begins to grow. In the context of nails, it specifically refers to the area at the base of the nail plate where new cells are produced to form the nail.
"Unguis" means "nail" in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word "unguere", which means "to anoint" or "to smear".
So, "matrix unguis" can be understood as the Latin term for the nail matrix, the specialized tissue at the base of the nail responsible for nail growth.
