Which type of nail is often caused by injury to the matrix and can be highly curved?

The plicatured nail is characterized by an abnormal curvature of the nail plate, which often results from injury or trauma to the nail matrix. This type of nail condition typically presents as a tightly folded or "curled" nail that can lead to discomfort or pain, as well as complications with nail growth. Understanding the structural implications of matrix injuries provides insights into how such conditions develop, highlighting the importance of protective measures and proper nail care after an injury occurs.

In contrast, onycholysis refers to the separation of the nail from the nail bed, often due to fungal infections or trauma, rather than curvature. Onychomadesis is a condition where the nail plate detaches from the matrix, leading to its subsequent loss without the significant curvature associated with plicatured nails. Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the nail, which does not directly involve the nail’s shape but rather affects the surrounding tissue. These differences clarify why the plicatured nail specifically relates to the characteristic high curvature resulting from matrix injuries.