Pterygium in nails is best described as what?

• A. Pterygium in nails is best described as skin adherence to the nail plate causing distorted growth
• B. Pterygium is a fungal infection
• C. Pterygium is a normal variation with growth
• D. Pterygium is a sign of good health

Answer: (A)

Pterygium in nails is best described as skin adherent to the nail plate, causing distortion as the nail grows. This occurs when the proximal nail fold scar or inflames and fuses to the nail plate, so the attached skin pulls on the nail and creates a distorted edge or wing-like extension. It is not a fungal infection, and it is not a normal variation or a sign of good health.