Final answer:
The medical term for the cuticle is indeed eponychium, which is a nail fold at the base of the nail that provides protection against infections. Nails are composed mainly of keratin, which is a strong protein also found in hair and skin. The eponychium and the nail itself play important roles in maintaining finger health and function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the medical term for cuticle is eponychium is True. The eponychium refers to the nail fold that meets the proximal end of the nail body, also commonly known as the cuticle. It plays a critical role in protecting the nail matrix from pathogens and helps maintain the overall health of the nail by providing a seal that prevents infections.
Nails are composed mainly of a protein called keratin, which makes them tough and hard. Keratin is the same protein that is found in hair and skin epidermis, which contributes to the structural integrity of these tissues. The nails serve essential functions such as protecting the distal phalanx, the fingertip, and the surrounding soft tissues from injuries.
The nail bed refers to the middle portion of the hard nail plate, and cutting nails typically does not hurt because there are no nerve endings in the nail. Maintaining the integrity of the eponychium is crucial for nail health, which is why it's often advised against cutting it during a manicure as it can lead to infections and other nail problems.