negleputen

Negeleputen, or the nail bed, is the region of skin that lies beneath the nail plate on fingers and toes. It extends from the proximal nail fold toward the hyponychium at the distal edge, with its lateral borders defined by the surrounding nail folds. The nail plate rests on the nail bed, and the visible half-moon at the base of the nail (the lunula) is part of the nail bed beneath the proximal nail plate.

Anatomically, the nail bed consists of a thin, well-vascularized epidermis over a dermal layer. It is relatively hairless and contains a network of capillaries that supply nutrients to the growing nail plate. The bed is contiguous with the nail matrix, which lies proximal to the bed under the proximal nail fold and is responsible for producing the nail plate.

Functionally, the nail bed provides nourishment and support for the nail plate. Its rich blood supply contributes to the pink coloration of the nail, and its adherence to the nail plate helps stabilize the nail as it grows. The nail bed also plays a role in the mechanical integrity of the nail, aiding in the smooth sliding of the plate during finger and toe movements.

Clinical relevance includes its susceptibility to injury, which can lead to nail deformities if the bed is damaged. Subungual hematoma, resulting from bleeding beneath the nail plate, is a common condition requiring relief of pressure and, in some cases, medical intervention to prevent lasting damage. Long-term bed injury can cause scarring and ridging of the nail.

See also: nail matrix, hyponychium.