Which part of the nail overlaps the lunula?

The part of the nail that overlaps the lunula is the eponychium. The eponychium is a layer of skin that is found at the base of the nail, specifically covering the area where the nail grows from the nail matrix. This protective structure helps to seal the area between the nail and the skin, preventing pathogens from entering and ensuring a healthy growth environment for the nail.

The relationship between the eponychium and the lunula (the crescent-shaped white area at the base of the nail) is important in understanding nail anatomy. The eponychium visibly overlaps the lunula, providing not just protection but also contributing to the overall appearance of the nail.

Other options, like the hyponychium, cuticle, and nail bed, refer to different parts of the nail structure. The hyponychium is located underneath the free edge of the nail, the cuticle is the thin layer of skin at the base of the nail, and the nail bed is the skin beneath the nail plate. While all these structures play vital roles in nail health and function, they do not overlap the lunula like the eponychium does.