The nail has a rather complex structure, and the matrix is one of its parts. We will tell you more about the description, structure and causes of damage to this anatomical zone.
What it is?
In order to determine the location of the nail matrix, you need to understand how the nail is arranged. So, it consists of several main parts and has edges.
The lower edge of the nail plate is covered with a special skin roller, which is called the cuticle. This element is formed by several skin layers, which are represented by epithelial cells. These cellular elements are gradually replaced by new ones. This contributes to the fact that the skin of the cuticle is constantly updated.
An important part of any nail plate is the root. To see this anatomical zone completely will not work, as it is covered by nearby tissues. However, you can consider only a small part of it. It looks like a white striped, resembling a crescent. This anatomical zone is called lunula.
If the nail is healthy, the color of this part is white. If the moon changes its tone, this indicates the presence of pathological conditions in the body. It is worth noting that this part of the nail is also quite vulnerable and can easily be damaged.
An important part of the nail is the matrix. The thickness of the nail plate depends on how thick it is. That is why some people have very strong nails, while others complain about the constant lamination of nail plates.
The initial thickness of the matrix is determined by many factors. For example, this parameter is influenced by heredity. If the nail matrix is thin from birth, then later problems with severe brittle nails can appear. In this case, to cope with the scourge will be quite difficult. The use of medical varnishes can, of course, help, but still completely get rid of brittleness will not succeed.
The nail matrix is a very delicate zone. Its main cellular elements are special cells - onihoblasts. They gradually transform and participate in the formation of the nail plate. From the health of onychoblasts depends on the appearance of the nails. If these cells function well, then the nails grow well, break less often and look great.
An important substance that determines the chemical composition of the nail is keratin. Many people think that this biological component is only in the hair, however, it is not. Keratin is an important protein that is involved in the construction of the nail plate. The molecular structure of this component is rather complicated.
This element is involved in the construction of keratin fibers. It is their individual structure that determines the strength of the nail plate. Keratin refers to fibrillar components, which are quite resistant to various influences. Some scientists note that it is only inferior in its strength to chitin, a substance that participates in the construction of the outer covers of many insects.
To build even a single keratin molecule, you need a sufficient amount of an amino acid - cysteine. The sulfur molecules contained in it interact with each other through chemical bonds, which leads to the fact that keratin has its special properties.
People whose matrix has a small thickness should be carefully manicured. So, if this procedure is done poorly, then it can only increase the fragility.Also, an inexperienced master is able to carry a dangerous infection that can lead to the appearance of adverse symptoms.
Each nail is well supplied with blood. If such nutrition did not occur, then the nail plate would simply not be able to grow. So, the blood vessels are in the nail bed. This anatomical zone is represented by connective tissue. It provides blood supply to the growth zone responsible for the growth of the nail plate.
Outside, the nail is covered with several layers of epithelial cells. Such a structure causes the protection of the nail bed and the matrix from various injuries. Also, this part of the nail protects it from the effects of various chemicals that can have a negative effect.
On the side of each nail are very important areas - the sinuses. They should be carefully handled during manicure or pedicure. In case of improper treatment, an infection can be introduced into the sinuses, which can lead to the appearance of pus in this zone. In addition, various foreign particles can get into the sinuses if the hygienic hand and foot care is not performed well.
Causes of damage
The causes of malfunctions of the matrix can be different. So, mechanical damage to this anatomical zone can cause a stop in the growth of the nail. If there was a pronounced damage to the keratin fibers, then in this case significant deformations of the plate may develop. This type of injury occurs in some athletes who have damaged their nails during workouts and exercises. For example, frequent injuries to the nail matrix occur in people who are professionally involved in volleyball, gymnastics or basketball.
Damage to the nail matrix, as a rule, occurs due to a strong ball hitting this anatomical zone. If the impact force is large, then this can lead to the appearance of bleeding, since the nail bed with the blood vessels located in it will be wounded. It is worth noting that if, as a result of traumatic damage, the integrity of the nail bed was broken, then the blood loss can be quite significant. When even a small bleeding occurs, it is better to always seek medical help.
Nail matrix can be damaged even with poor quality pedicure. If the processing of the nail plate is carried out incorrectly, then an awkward movement can cause injury. Some pedicure specialists, working with the cuticle, can also damage the area of the nail matrix. This may cause the nail to grow improperly or even become more brittle.
Household injuries can also cause injury to the nail matrix. For example, pinching a door. Also, various cuts to the fingers can cause damage to this anatomical zone. In this case, urgent assistance is required, otherwise the development of negative consequences can no longer be avoided.
Diseases are another cause of problems with the matrix. One of the common pathologies is a fungal infection. Usually the nail plate of the toes is affected by the fungus. The fungus appears on the edge of the nail, and then gradually "grows" to the matrix. If a fungal infection develops quickly and causes damage, this contributes to the fact that the nail plates significantly change their appearance.
Features of treatment
Therapy of the damaged nail matrix is largely determined by the cause that led to this. So, if the cause was an injury, then timely medical assistance is extremely important. If the nail is severely damaged, then the damaged nail plate should be carefully removed.This procedure is carried out by a traumatologist or surgeon with the help of special medical instruments that have been previously sterilized.
After the completely destroyed nail is removed, a bandage is applied to the injury site. It is also necessary to write out tools that will protect the site of damage from infection and help restore the nail plate. In some cases, even the prescription of antibacterial agents is required. The use of such drugs will help reduce the risk of purulent complications.
Matrix treatment is usually quite long. In order to restore this anatomical zone, sometimes you need to spend several months. Therefore, for carrying out such treatment should be patient.
If a fungal infection has led to the damage to the matrix, then antifungal agents are required. In the chronic form, the fungus is poorly treated with special medical varnishes, systemic drugs are already prescribed here.
For problems with the nail matrix and other nail pathologies, see the video below.
