Which condition is characterized by the separation of the nail from its bed?

Onycholysis is the correct term for the condition characterized by the separation of the nail from its bed. This separation can occur for various reasons, including trauma, infection, or systemic illness. In cases of onycholysis, the nail plate typically lifts away from the nail bed, which can lead to discomfort and an increased risk of infections in the exposed area.

Understanding onycholysis is essential for identifying nail health issues and providing appropriate treatments or referrals. Monitoring for signs of this condition can also be valuable in maintaining overall nail care and hygiene among clients.

Onychomycosis, on the other hand, refers specifically to a fungal infection of the nail, leading to changes in nail appearance but not necessarily separation from the nail bed. Onychia involves inflammation of the nail matrix, which can affect nail growth but does not primarily cause separation from the bed. Beau's lines are grooves that run horizontally across the nail and indicate periods of growth disruption, but they do not signify separation from the nail bed.