What type of nail condition is actively caused by nail biting?

The condition caused by nail biting is known as onychophagy. This term specifically refers to the habitual act of biting the nails, which can lead to various issues, including damage to the surrounding skin, infection, and changes in the nail structure itself. Onychophagy is more than just a cosmetic concern; it can indicate underlying stress or anxiety in the individual, which might need to be addressed.

Other conditions listed are related to nails but are caused by different factors. Onychocryptosis, for example, is the term for an ingrown nail, while onychia refers to the inflammation or infection of the nail matrix, often resulting from trauma or infection. Onychomycosis pertains to a fungal infection of the nails. Each of these conditions has distinct causes and symptoms that do not relate directly to the habitual act of biting one’s nails.