lanula
Lanula, often spelled lunula, is the visible white crescent-shaped area at the proximal base of the fingernail or toenail. It marks the portion of the nail plate that overlies the nail matrix, the tissue responsible for creating the nail.
Anatomy and appearance: The lunula corresponds to the portion of the nail matrix that is visible through
Variation and clinical relevance: The size and visibility of the lunula vary among individuals and across digits;
Etymology and usage: The term lanula is a variant spelling of lunula, derived from the Latin luna