What condition is characterized by bitten nails?

Onychophagy is the term used to describe the habit of biting one's nails. This condition often results from anxiety, stress, or boredom and can lead to various degrees of damage to the nails and surrounding skin. When nails are bitten, they may appear short, uneven, and sometimes have injuries or infections around the fingers. Understanding onychophagy can help nail technicians recognize the significance of healthy nail maintenance and the psychological aspects associated with nail care.

In contrast, the other conditions listed involve different nail issues: onychorrhexis refers to brittle nails that split or break easily; plicatured nail refers to a nail that has an abnormal curvature, which can impact its shape; and nail pterygium is a condition characterized by the presence of abnormal growth of skin over the nail bed. Each of these conditions has distinct causes and implications for nail treatment and care.