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Which term refers to the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed?

  1. Onycholysis

  2. Onychoptosis

  3. Onychorrhexis

  4. Pterygium

The correct answer is: Onycholysis

Onycholysis refers to the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed. This can be caused by trauma, fungal infections, or underlying medical conditions. Onychoptosis, or nail shedding, refers to the natural process of nails falling off and being replaced by new growth. Onychorrhexis, or brittle nails, is a condition where the nails become weak and easily break or split. Pterygium is a medical term for a benign growth over the nail bed, which is different from separation of the nail plate. Therefore, A is the only correct answer that accurately describes the separation of the nail plate from the nail bed.